47The ancestral tribe of the Levites, however, was not counted along with the others. - P98
50Instead, appoint the Levites to be in charge of the tabernacle of the covenant law—over all its furnishings and everything belonging to it. They are to carry the tabernacle and all its furnishings; they are to take care of it and encamp around it - P98
51Whenever the tabernacle is to move, the Levites are to take it down, and whenever the tabernacle is to be set up, the Levites shall do it. Anyone else who approaches it is to be put to death. - P99
53The Levites, however, are to set up their tents around the tabernacle of the covenant law so that my wrath will not fall on the Israelite community. The Levites are to be responsible for the care of the tabernacle of the covenant law." - P99
The tribe of Levis exempted from the census of Israel‘s fighting men. TheLevites are instead counted separately, as they are designated for service inthe tabernacle. Moses and Aaron are instructed to assign duties to the Levites,
who will oversee the tabernacle‘s care and transportation. The Israelites obeywhat the Lord commanded Moses. - P99
As believers today, we, too, are set apart for God. We are not to be caught up in worldly pursuits but to serve Him wholeheartedly. This privilege of belonging to God’s people calls us to a life dedicated to God’s service. - P100
We are to honor Him by faithfully carrying out our responsibilities, serving the Lord and serving one another to build up His kingdom. - P100
By setting up their tents and living around the tabernacle, they maintain a protective boundary around it. Their work prevents unintentional trespass into the sacred space, preserving the safety of the Israelites. This role may look different from that of the other tribes, but it is essential to the spiritual life and protection of the community as each tribe contributes to Israel’s collective strength. - P100
Similarly, in the body of Christ, some may serve in pastoral or missionary roles while others serve in areas such as business, healthcare, or education. Each of us has a unique and important assignment and all are vital as we contribute to God’s kingdom. - P100
Instead, being set apart means that we are to bewithin the world but live in a way that reveals our new life in Christ. Weare no longer defined by the world, following its patterns of brokenness,
darkness, and sinfulness. Rather, we demonstrate to others how the mercy,
truth, and love of God have changed our hearts. Because of our salvationthrough Jesus, we reflect His light to those around us. - P101
If we have truly set our lives apart, our hearts are transformed from theinside out. Over time, more of Christ‘s character should be reflected in howwe live. - P101
We are sanctified; with each passing year, we resemble Him mOur lives should be evidence of how Christ has changed us. We do not lookdifferent from the world out of arrogance or a desire to compare ourselvesto others. - P101
We simply commit to living by God‘s standards because we seekto be holy as He is holy. - P101
May I fulfill my responsibilities with a heart fully committed to You. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P101
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