How can we ensure our service is as diligent as Mattithiah's in 1 Chronicles 9:31? Mattithiah’s Diligent Assignment 1 Chronicles 9:31 records: “A Levite named Mattithiah, the firstborn son of Shallum the Korahite, was entrusted with baking the offering bread.” Scripture’s precise wording underlines a real man, a real task, and a real trust. The Bread of the Presence (Exodus 25:30; Leviticus 24:5-6) had to be prepared exactly as God commanded, so consistent, careful service was essential. What Made His Service Stand Out - Entrusted with a task directly connected to God’s worship - Faithful in a behind-the-scenes role, not seeking spotlight - Kept to the pattern God revealed, showing reverence for His word - Served continually; the bread was “before Me at all times” (Exodus 25:30) Biblical Principles for Matching His Diligence - Wholehearted effort: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men.” (Colossians 3:23) - Faithfulness in small things: “Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” (Luke 16:10) - God-centered motive: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) - Fervent spirit: “Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Romans 12:11) - Joyful attitude: “Serve the LORD with gladness.” (Psalm 100:2) - Quiet excellence: “Do everything without complaining or arguing.” (Philippians 2:14-15) Practical Ways to Bake Our “Offering Bread” Today - Treat every assignment—public or hidden—as worship rendered to God. - Prepare thoroughly; skill and planning express respect for His holiness. - Follow Scripture’s instructions accurately, trusting its reliability. - Guard consistency: keep showing up, even when feelings fluctuate. - Maintain purity of heart; the hands that serve the Lord must stay clean. - Welcome accountability from trusted believers, mirroring Levitical order. - Cultivate gratitude; thank God for the privilege of serving His people. - Rely on the Spirit’s enabling strength rather than personal resolve alone. Encouragement for the Journey - The Lord sees every loaf “baked” for His honor, even when no one else notices. - Small, faithful acts accumulate eternal reward (Matthew 25:21). - Scripture assures that diligent servants shine as lights in a dark world (Philippians 2:15). - Finishing well brings glory to Christ and edifies the church for generations to come. |
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