Step 2: Service

Scripture: 2 Chronicles 5:12-13b

and all the Levitical singers, Asaph, Heman, Jeduthun, and their sons and kinsmen, clothed in fine linen, with cymbals, harps and lyres, standing east of the altar, and with them one hundred and twenty priests blowing trumpets in unison when the trumpeters and the singers were to make themselves heard with one voice to praise and to glorify the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice accompanied by trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music,

Insights:   The second step to encounter the Lord is service.  In other words, after our heart has been made right with the Lord through purification, we are then able to serve the Lord with the spiritual giftedness He has granted to us.  In today’s verses it is all specifically related to music, but the principle is still the same.  There were different people to perform each of the different tasks for the worship service in regards to the music.  We also know from other scripture there were those who specifically dealt with the furniture of the Temple.  We know there were others who stood as guards at the different gates into the Temple.  We know there were others who were over the incense bowls and others still over the bread.  The list could go on to include those who did the sacrifices, took care of the menorah, and the wash basin.  The same is true in modern day contexts.  Some are gifted to be evangelist and others to be teachers.  Some have the gift of exhortation and still others mercy.  The point is it takes all of the church using their giftedness together to bring about corporate worship that is pleasing to the Lord.  At the same time, we individually begin to experience the Lord personally when we obediently serve with our giftedness.  I can most assuredly tell you that you are not capable of truly encountering the Lord if you are just a pew sitter.  So many in the church today, act as if they are doing the Lord a favor by just showing up to worship services.  God forgive us of this kind of attitude.  Let us joyfully serve the Lord, Beloved.  If we will, it takes us one step closer to a genuine encounter with the Lord.

Questions:

1. What is your spiritual gift?
2. In what capacity are you presently using your giftedness?

Prayer: Father, forgive me when I selfishly refuse to serve You with the giftedness You have granted to me.  Transform my heart to experience joy and pleasure when I serve You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength.  May my service bring You glory. Amen.