Warriors Arise: February 8, 2023
1 Chronicles 15:16-24 (NKJV) Then David spoke to the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brethren to be the singers accompanied by instruments of music, stringed instruments, harps, and cymbals, by raising the voice with resounding joy. 17 So the Levites appointed Heman the son of Joel; and of his brethren, Asaph the son of Berechiah; and of their brethren, the sons of Merari, Ethan the son of Kushaiah; 18 and with them their brethren of the second rank: Zechariah, Ben, Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Benaiah, Maaseiah, Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, and Jeiel, the gatekeepers; 19 the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan, were to sound the cymbals of bronze; 20 Zechariah, Aziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Unni, Eliab, Maaseiah, and Benaiah, with strings according to Alamoth; 21 Mattithiah, Elipheleh, Mikneiah, Obed-Edom, Jeiel, and Azaziah, to direct with harps on the Sheminith; 22 Chenaniah, leader of the Levites, was instructor in charge of the music, because he was skillful
About two years ago, my youngest daughter started asking, "Mommy, whose in charge?" She understood there was an order of leadership when I left. If daddy wasn't going to be home either, she wanted to know who was in charge. However, we quickly found out she was wanting to be in charge. She was asking, because she wanted to know when it would be her turn.
I can't find in Scripture where Chenaniah asked to be in charge of the music. I am thinking Chenaniah might have been a little bit apprehensive. There was no standard set for what he was assigned to do. Some people think that is wonderful, because they do not have to follow in the footsteps of another nor do they have someone else's shoes to fill. It can seem so overwhelming when your work is compared to anothers. However, it could have been a challenge, because he would have needed to impress David. David, who is king. David, who is known for his ability on the harp. David, who wrote songs. David, who wanted everything to be perfect for God's arrival. Sometimes it can be more difficult to fulfill someone's expectations than to fill someone's shoes. David told the Levites to appoint their brethren to be singers, instrumentalists, and resound with joy.
We do not know how much time Chenaniah had to get Levites rounded up, check their level of musical abilities and organize the music, but it they had to move quickly. There would be no waiting. They would immediately begin lifting up their praises with joy and playing their instruments to glorify God. I would imagine it would be difficult in this short amount of time to get them singing and playing together. Can you imagine throwing together an orchestra or a Christmas cantata in a matter of a few days?
Chenaniah was left in charge. He was responsible for gathering the Levites to use their ability to sing and instrumentally to worship God. David had expectations upon his return with the ark of the covenant of the Lord. David was a musician and a singer. That sets the bar a little higher. Remember when Saul's servants were looking for a skilled musician to calm the distressing spirit that came upon Saul? They recommended David. He was skilled musically.
There are times when God calls us into a leadership position that we are not sure we want. We know it is God, so we get our mind wrapped around what He wants us to do. The task can seem so daunting. However, God had a reason for choosing us. He needed someone willing. I have no doubt Chenaniah was skilled in leadership, song and musical ability. The thousands of Levites he had to organize, put together on rotations, make sure musical instruments and vocal abilities were covered at all time, meant he was capable to do what he was being assigned to do.
You and I can be in the same situation as Chenaniah. We didn't ask for the position but God trust us to execute His plan and fulfill the responsibilities to our best ability. He knows we will seek Him, listen, and follow His direction. He knows we will wait for His wisdom and lead as we see Him lead.
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV) I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Maybe we don't think we can handle the responsibility that has been given to us, but we know it is from God. We are given the opportunity to allow God to shine through us. We are willing vessels to accomplish His plan. We may not have all the right abilities, but we are willing. Scripture does not say, "God looks to and fro for the most talented person". Scripture says, "God looks to an fro over the earth to hind a heart that is loyal to Him." This is what is important to God. Yes, He wants us to apply ourselves to become the best we can. When we do, He comes along side us and makes it even better.
Ephesians 3:20-21 (NKJV) Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
When God puts us in charge, He is expecting us to give Him our best and watch Him multiply our ability, influence, and the harvest. He will let nothing go to waste when we are walking in what He has called us to do.
Father, I lay myself before You. I seek You to find You. I listen for Your voice and follow. You are amazing in all of Your ways. Your love overflows from heaven and pours into my life, into my circumstance, and enhances my abilities. You direct my path and show me how to accomplish what You have placed in my hands. I will honor You and seek You with all my heart. I will prepare my talents and be ready. Your desire is for me to walk in the fullness of what You have put inside of me. I will surrender to Your will and rise up when it is my time to lead. I will not be afraid. I will trust You and follow You in Jesus' name amen.
A Warrior in the Lord’s Army,
Veridee Joy Hand
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