1 Chronicles 9:10-13, "And of the priests; Jedaiah, and Jehoiarib, and Jachin, 11 And Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the ruler of the house of God. 12 And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer; 13 And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God."

In today's passage we are reminded that God used men, described as "very able" to serve HIM and the nation of Israel in it's Old Testament worship of God. 1 Chronicles 6:48-49 spoke of the appointing of Levites and their responsibilities for service in the tabernacle, but Aaron and his sons were given the greatest responsibilities, as they offered sacrifices and incense on a daily basis, as well as the work in the holy of holies to make atonement for Israel.

Worship is all about God and His redemptive plan. Isn't it a joy to think about our own salvation and how God brought redemption to us. And to understand we have the privilege of serving God to bring people to his same redemptive purposes in their lives. Worship should lift up the Savior in this New Testament era so that we might be reminded of Christ's great worthiness and desire to see all come to repentance.

May I encourage each of you to find a place of consistent service in the local church in order to lift up Christ. Jesus said in John 12:32, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." He was speaking here of His death, but certainly He must be lifted up among His people if people are going to learn who He is.

Psalm 100 "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. 2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.  3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.  4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations."

Have a great day walking in the power of the Holy Spirit.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

QUESTIONS TO PONDER
1.  List your areas of giftedness.  How might you use your gifts to bring glory to God?  

2.  What is your place of service in your local church?  If you don't have a place of regular service, will you seek a place to serve in the Lord?

3.  Are you serving the Lord with gladness?  If not, why not?