Our Compassionate God

Focus verses: II Chronicles 30:1-9

King Hezekiah returned Judah to the worship of the Lord. He had the Levites purify the Temple, and he invited the northern tribes to a Passover feast. While most did not participate, a few did.

The invitation that went out said "return to the Lord, The of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, the He may return to you who are left." And it ended with "the Lord your God is gracious and compassionate. He will not turn his face from you if you return to Him."

Hezekiah knew the Lord well. He did what was good and right. Therefore he prospered.

Righteousness is its own reward. But it seems that prosperity of one sort or another follows the righteous person. Prosperity is not always financial; frequently it takes the form of spiritual well-being and contentment.

The wealth of the Christian is the favor of the Lord. It is the knowledge that God is always in control of whatever circumstances may be around us. For our God is compassionate and forgiving to those who love and serve Him.

Father, God,

Keep us ever mindful that our life, our hope, and our prosperity is to be found only in You. Help us to purify our temples for Your service.

In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen.

Affairs In Order

Focus verses: 1 Chronicles 23:1-6

David was old and putting his affairs in order. The Levites' duties changed because they no longer needed to move the tent of meeting. Levites, priests, judges, gatekeepers, and musicians were decided by lot and given their assigned duties. David did all this to get his house in order before his death.

Four thousand of the thirty-eight thousand men were appointed to be musicians with harps, cymbals and lyres. That represents more than ten percent of their numbers. And that doesn't count the special group of appointed singers.

David thought the music was important. Since he was a man after God's own heart, we can assume God thought the music was important as well. The singers didn't just sing, they prophesied to the music. We can be certain that they praised as well.

God inhabits the praises of His people. When we sing, we stir the Holy Spirit within our spirit. The words and music resonate with us and leave us uplifted, better than when we started. He who sings, prays twice - once in the music and once in the words.

When in doubt, sing. When in trouble, sing. When put upon by all kinds of trials and problems, sing.

Lift up your heart and voice. Sing!

Father, God,

Thank you for the ability to praise you in music and song. We are grateful that you said "make a joyful noise" not sing beautifully on key. Touch our hearts so that we are ever ready to open in mouths in praise of You.
In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen.