How can we apply the principle of provision in 1 Chronicles 6:70 today? Setting the Scene “From the tribe of Asher they received Mashal, Abdon” (1 Chronicles 6:70). • The Levites owned no large tracts of land; their calling was to serve at the tabernacle and later the temple. • God moved the other tribes to assign specific towns and surrounding pasturelands so the Levites’ daily needs were met while they focused on ministry (cf. Numbers 18:20–24). Principle of Provision • God’s people are responsible for supplying the material needs of those set apart for spiritual service. • Provision is practical—land, housing, food—and enables undivided devotion to God’s work (Deuteronomy 18:1–5). • The pattern continues in the New Testament: “The Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel” (1 Corinthians 9:14). Timeless Truths Highlighted • Stewardship: Everything belongs to the Lord; we merely manage His assets (Psalm 24:1). • Partnership: Ministry is a shared venture—some serve full-time, others resource that service (Philippians 4:15-18). • Testimony: Generous provision proclaims trust in God’s economy, not the world’s scarcity (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Modern Application Provide for vocational ministers • Fair, reliable compensation packages for pastors, missionaries, church staff. • Intentional budgeting for continuing education, sabbaticals, and health care so servants can minister long-term. Support emerging servants • Scholarships for Bible college or seminary students. • Mentoring and internship stipends that remove financial barriers to ministry preparation. Open homes and resources • Host itinerant speakers or missionaries in guest rooms. • Offer vehicles, tools, or professional skills to lighten the load of those focused on kingdom work. Prioritize church generosity • Allocate a percentage of every congregational budget to global missions and relief efforts. • Create benevolence funds that meet emergency needs of ministry families. Cultivate personal generosity • Tithe faithfully and give offerings above the tithe (Proverbs 3:9). • Regularly set aside funds for spontaneous Spirit-prompted giving. Model transparency and accountability • Clear reporting on how gifts are used builds trust and honors God’s standards (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). Extend provision beyond clergy • Volunteer time so over-stretched leaders can rest. • Offer childcare, meal trains, or counseling services to ministry families. Encouraging Outcome When believers embrace the principle of provision seen in 1 Chronicles 6:70, spiritual leaders are freed to focus on worship, teaching, and shepherding. The whole body flourishes, God’s word advances without hindrance, and the watching world sees a living display of Christ-like generosity. |
    |