It May Seem Bland

Numbers 3:1–39 Let’s just admit it: genealogies and lists, like the one in Num 3:1–39, are the most boring elements of the Bible. But they do something for us that other formats cannot—they give us a sense of history and lineage. With a genealogy, we can do more than just trace people; we can map their relationships to others and to the events that happen through those relationships. We can also determine who was involved in those major events. Genealogies and lists give us a small glimpse into God’s providential work, even though we may not recognize them as such. God worked among the people in those lists. He chose to use them. They didn’t deserve to be used by God in mighty ways, but they were. Some of the people in Num 3:1–39 were given seemingly insignificant tasks: “The responsibility of the sons of Merari was the supervision of the frames of the tabernacle, its bars, pillars, bases, and all its vessels and all its service,” among other things (Num 3:36). If most of us were given this assignment, we would probably think it lame and ask for another. But the sons of Merari likely understood that anything God asks of us should be followed through with honor. The people listed in Num 3:1–39 were likely selected because they believed they would see God’s glory. This reminds me of what Jesus says at the tomb of Lazarus. When He asks that Lazarus rise from his tomb, Lazarus’ sister, Mary, says, “Lord, he is stinking already, because it has been four days.” But Jesus has an answer: “Did I not say to you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:39–40). God may ask us to do things that seem insignificant or crazy, but if we don’t, we will miss out on seeing His glory. What is God currently asking of you that seems insignificant or crazy? Barry, J. D., & Kruyswijk, R. (2012). Connect the Testaments: A Daily Devotional. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software.