“Therefore shall they have no inheritance among their brethren: the LORD is their inheritance, as he hath said unto them.”
Context:The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, and it contains Moses’ final words to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is speaking to the tribe of Levi, who were chosen by God to serve as priests and ministers in Israel. The Levites were not given a specific territorial inheritance like the other tribes but were to rely on the Lord as their inheritance.
The Levites and their inheritance:In the division of the Promised Land among the twelve tribes of Israel, the tribe of Levi did not receive a specific portion of land. Instead, their portion was the Lord Himself. This was because they were set apart for holy service to God, and their responsibility was to minister to the spiritual needs of the people, offering sacrifices, teaching the Law, and leading in worship.
The spiritual significance:The absence of a physical inheritance for the Levites highlights their unique role as mediators between God and the people. They were called to devote themselves entirely to God’s service, and their inheritance was not in material possessions but in a close relationship with the Lord. By not having land or material wealth, the Levites were set apart to focus solely on their spiritual duties, ensuring the people’s spiritual welfare.
Lessons for believers today:
- Dependence on God:The verse reminds us that our ultimate inheritance as believers is not in material possessions or worldly wealth but in a relationship with God. Our primary focus should be on seeking God’s presence and pursuing a deeper understanding of His Word.
- Ministry and service:Like the Levites, as followers of Christ, we are called to serve and minister to others. Each believer has unique spiritual gifts and should use them to edify the body of Christ and bring glory to God.
- Prioritizing spiritual matters:The Levites’ lack of a physical inheritance serves as a reminder to prioritize spiritual matters over worldly pursuits. While it is not wrong to have material possessions, our ultimate focus should be on seeking and serving God above all else.
In summary, Deuteronomy 18:2 highlights the unique role of the Levites and their reliance on the Lord as their inheritance. It also teaches us about the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God, engaging in ministry and service, and recognizing that our true inheritance is found in Him rather than worldly possessions.
