the Week of Proper 4 / Ordinary 9
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Daily Devotionals
Day by Day Devotional - Year 2 of 5
1 Chronicles 4:21-43
Still among the sons of Judah, after the kings and the rich and honourable persons such as Jabez, we see the simple craftsmen (vv. 14, 21-23). They were workers in fine linen and fabrics, potters and gardeners. Their condition was a humble one, but their privileges very great, for they "dwelt with the king for his work". Let us refrain from seeking a high position for ourselves in the world, if the Lord has not expressly called us to it. The people of God does not include "many wise men after the flesh . . . , many mighty . . . , many noble . . ." (1 Corinthians 1:26; read also Jeremiah 45:5). Every important position inevitably brings with it time-absorbing responsibilities, which generally leave little room to be occupied with the Word and the work of the Lord. Let us not therefore chose jobs which hinder us from dwelling with the King, or from being able to do His work.
The tribe of Simeon was the object of severe judgment because of the violence of its head (Genesis 49:5-7) and the idolatry at Baal-Peor (Leviticus 25:14). But here, in accordance with the design of the book, it is only a matter of the good results that grace has achieved. This tribe has extended its borders, and has secured brilliant victories.
