“And, according to the order of David his father, he appointed the divisions of the priests for their service, the Levites for their duties (to praise and serve before the priests) as the duty of each day required, and the gatekeepers by their divisions at each gate; for so David the man of God had commanded.” (2 Chron 8:14)
Solomon was king with full authority, yet he chose to follow his dead father’s order. The priests and Levites also took up the posts David had assigned them.
A wise father who prepared
Knowing that Solomon was young and inexperienced, David made abundant preparations for the temple, following plans he had received by the Spirit (1 Chron 22:5, 28:11-12).
Keeping a big temple running takes a great deal of details, as anyone who has helped run a business or the church knows. David was meticulous in organising the various ministries.
A wise king who listened
But David’s plans still needed Solomon to receive them. By the time of 2 Chronicles 8, God had made Solomon the wisest man alive. Rather than be impressed by his own wisdom and cast aside David’s plans, Solomon still chose to follow his orders.
When older church believers, colleagues, or family members pass on their way of doing things, we can be quick to call it outdated. Solomon shows another way: receive what was prepared for us with humility and an open mind.
Wise workers who submitted
The priests and Levites played their part too. Many of their posts were decided by lot, which meant they did not choose where they would serve. Yet “they did not depart from the command of the king” (2 Chron 8:15).
Today we put a lot of weight on choice, and we like to pick where we serve. When we are rostered to a duty we would not have chosen, the Levites show us how to take it up: submitting to one another in the fear of God (Eph 5:21). This is how God’s house stays in good order (2 Chron 8:16).
Reflection questions:
Is there a duty in church you were given but didn't choose? How can you take it up this month as sincere service to God?
The next time you disagree with a plan in church work, how will you raise it while still submitting to one another in the fear of God?
