What other scriptures emphasize the need for faithful service in God's kingdom? Faithful service: the heartbeat of 1 Chronicles 26 : 30 “Of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his relatives—1,700 capable men—were in charge of the affairs of Israel west of the Jordan for all the work of the LORD and for the service of the king.” (1 Chronicles 26 : 30) The verse paints a picture of trusted men shouldering sacred and civic duties with diligence. Scripture weaves this same theme from Genesis to Revelation. Old Testament calls to loyal work • Joshua 22 : 5 — “Only carefully obey the command… to serve Him with all your heart and all your soul.” • 1 Samuel 12 : 24 — “Above all, fear the LORD and serve Him faithfully with all your heart.” • Psalm 100 : 2 — “Serve the LORD with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs.” • Nehemiah 4 : 6 — “So we rebuilt the wall, and the entire wall was joined together… for the people had a mind to work.” • Proverbs 27 : 18 — “He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who looks after his master will be honored.” Jesus’ own teaching on diligent servants • Matthew 20 : 26-28 — “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” • Matthew 24 : 45-46 — “Who then is the faithful and wise servant…? Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.” • Matthew 25 : 21 — “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.” • Luke 12 : 42-43 — “Who then is the faithful and wise manager…? Blessed is that servant whom his master finds doing so when he returns.” The apostles echo the mandate • 1 Corinthians 4 : 2 — “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” • Galatians 6 : 9-10 — “Let us not grow weary in doing good… as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone.” • Colossians 3 : 23-24 — “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole heart, as working for the Lord… It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” • 2 Timothy 2 : 15 — “Present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed.” • Hebrews 6 : 10 — “God is not unjust; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His saints and continue to help them.” • 1 Peter 4 : 10-11 — “Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve others… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Motives and rewards for steadfast service • Revelation 2 : 10 — “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” • 1 Corinthians 15 : 58 — “Be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” • Matthew 6 : 20 — “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” Putting it into practice • Remember the example of Hashabiah’s clan—ordinary people entrusted with extraordinary responsibility. • Let every task, public or hidden, become “work of the LORD.” • Serve with gladness, fueled by love for the Master who served first and promises eternal reward. |
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