“But the tithes of the children of Israel, which they offer as an heave offering unto the LORD, I have given to the Levites to inherit: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance.”
Context:Numbers 18 records God’s instructions to Aaron and the Levites regarding their responsibilities and privileges in the tabernacle. The Levites were chosen by God to assist the priests in the service of the tabernacle and were not allocated a specific portion of land like the other tribes of Israel. Instead, they were given the tithes and offerings brought by the people as their provision.
Tithes as Heave Offerings:In this verse, God states that the tithes brought by the children of Israel were to be given to the Levites as a heave offering. The term “heave offering” refers to a portion of an offering that was lifted or raised up before the Lord and then given to the priests or Levites. It was a way to consecrate and set apart a portion of the offering for their sustenance.
The Levites’ Inheritance:God specifically designates the tithes as the inheritance of the Levites. Unlike the other tribes who were allotted portions of land, the Levites’ inheritance was the tithes brought by the people. This was their means of sustenance and provision. By providing for the Levites in this way, God ensured that they could fully dedicate themselves to their service in the tabernacle.
No Inheritance Among the Israelites:God also states that among the children of Israel, the Levites would have no inheritance. This means that the Levites would not receive any land as their possession, unlike the other tribes. Instead, they would rely on the tithes and offerings brought by the people for their livelihood. By not having a portion of land, the Levites were not distracted by agricultural responsibilities and could focus entirely on their priestly duties.
Key Lessons:
- Provision for God’s Servants:God established a system to provide for those who served Him in the tabernacle. He instructed the Israelites to bring their tithes as an offering to support the Levites. This teaches us the importance of providing for those who are called to serve God and minister to His people.
- Trusting in God’s Provision:The Levites’ reliance on the tithes and offerings demonstrates the principle of trusting in God’s provision. They had no inheritance like the other tribes, but they trusted that God would provide for their needs through the offerings brought by the people. It reminds us to trust in God’s faithfulness to meet our needs as we serve Him.
- Sacrificial Service:The Levites’ dedication to serving in the tabernacle, despite not having a portion of land, highlights the principle of sacrificial service. They set aside personal possessions and privileges for the sake of serving God and His people. It serves as a reminder that serving God often involves sacrifices and requires a wholehearted commitment.
In conclusion, Numbers 18:24 emphasizes the provision of tithes as heave offerings for the Levites, who were appointed to serve in the tabernacle. It teaches us the importance of providing for those who serve God, trusting in His provision, and embracing sacrificial service in our own lives.
