Introduction
Nehemiah 12:44–47: After the dedication of the city wall, officials are put in charge to supervise contributions for the Temple to support the priests and Levites, as well as the Temple musicians and guards.
Today’s Key Verse: Nehemiah 12:47b GNT
The people gave a sacred offering to the Levites, and the Levites gave the required portion to the priests.
Read
44 At that time men were put in charge of the storerooms where contributions for the Temple were kept, including the tithes and the first grain and fruit that ripened each year. These men were responsible for collecting from the farms near the various cities the contributions for the priests and the Levites which the Law required. All the people of Judah were pleased with the priests and the Levites, 45 because they performed the ceremonies of purification and the other rituals that God had commanded. The Temple musicians and the Temple guards also performed their duties in accordance with the regulations made by King David and his son Solomon. 46 From the time of King David and the musician Asaph long ago, the musicians have led songs of praise and thanksgiving to God. 47 In the time of Zerubbabel and also in the time of Nehemiah, all the people of Israel gave daily gifts for the support of the Temple musicians and the Temple guards. The people gave a sacred offering to the Levites, and the Levites gave the required portion to the priests.
Reflect
What are the responsibilities of those appointed to collect the contributions? What other roles are integral to worship in the Temple? What roles or tasks are assigned to people in your faith community?
Pray
Lord God, I seek to follow your teachings and serve you faithfully. I praise and glorify your holy name. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Job 1:1–12: Satan challenges God to test Job.
