TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE
Obed-Edom’s son Shemaiah also had sons, who were leaders in their father’s family because they were very capable men. The sons of Shemaiah: Othni, Rephael, Obed and Elzabad; his relatives Elihu and Semakiah were also able men. All these were descendants of Obed-Edom; they and their sons and their relatives were capable men with the strength to do the work—descendants of Obed-Edom, 62 in all. Meshelemiah had sons and relatives, who were able men—18 in all. Hosah the Merarite had sons: Shimri the first (although he was not the firstborn, his father had appointed him the first), Hilkiah the second, Tabaliah the third and Zechariah the fourth. The sons and relatives of Hosah were 13 in all. These divisions of the gatekeepers, through their leaders, had duties for ministering in the temple of the Lord, just as their relatives had. Lots were cast for each gate, according to their families, young and old alike.
1 Chronicles 26:6–13
DEVOTIONAL
by Elder Chris Beltran
The Bible has several passages with long lists of names. People would often skip these sections. The passage for today is a functional list. It lists people for jobs as gatekeepers of God’s temple. So what did I learn from the list that does not seem to be of any concern to me?
First of all, the list taught me that organizational skills are important. God wants us to do things in an orderly manner. 1 Corinthians 14:40 says, “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” The second is that each job requires qualifications. This gatekeeper’s job required men who were of great abilities. 1 Peter 4:10 says, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Third, names are important because our God is a personal God. He knows each one of us by name, just as He knows each star by name. Isaiah 43:1b “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.” The God who called Moses, Abram, and Isaiah by name also calls us by our name and lists us in the most important list of all, the Book of Life.
So next time you see a list of names, pray hard and try not to skip them. Who knows what lessons, clues, or connections you might glean from them.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thanks for teaching us faithful service. Guide us to find purpose in our tasks and approach responsibilities with diligence. May our hearts be tuned to wholehearted service, knowing even small tasks contribute to Your kingdom’s work. Grant us wisdom to fulfill our roles faithfully. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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