My sons, do not neglect your duties any longer! The Lord has chosen you to stand in his presence, to minister to him, and to lead the people in worship and present offerings to him.” [2 Chronicles 29.11]
Even though these words were spoken by Hezekiah to the priests and Levites, I find them speaking to my heart today.
I believe there are those who have a calling on their life that needs to be obeyed and fulfilled.
To "stand in His presence..." and the instructions that follow above, can plainly be translated into today's language as prayer.
The command to "present offerings to Him..." can only be the sacrifice of seeking His Kingdom first - the sacrifice of putting people first (above ourselves).
In today's reading, after all Hezekiah did to restore Temple worship, there was this verse:
In this way, King Hezekiah handled the distribution throughout all Judah, doing what was pleasing and good in the sight of the Lord his God. In all that he did in the service of the Temple of God and in his efforts to follow God’s laws and commands, Hezekiah sought his God wholeheartedly. As a result, he was very successful. [2 Chronicles 31.20-21]
Here above is clearly an Old Testament example of a New Testament principle presented by Jesus:
Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. [Matthew 6.33]
Father, I am thrilled to find the principle of putting You and Your Kingdom first in the Old Testament as well as the New! Help me to obey You and the voice of Your Spirit more and more.
