And they installed the priests in their divisions and the Levites in their groups for the service of God at Jerusalem. (Ezra 6:18)
Expanded Passage: Ezra 6:18
The youth of any society usually struggle with structure. Boundaries are too stifling, too controlling. I used to think that about many structures in culture. However, the alternative—chaos—is not a good option either. As life progresses, I have grown to appreciate structure. As a leader, I was often tasked with deconstructing and restructuring many things in life and in ministry. What I’ve discovered is that the temptation to trust ourselves seems ever-present when it comes to organization and management.
In this record of Ezra’s lifetime, God commanded the structure of his temple along with those who would serve him in ministry. His newly completed temple needed its service function to flow with God’s ordered structure, which is part of the reason he installed the priests and Levites in this passage.
Think about a few things God has structured for us. He structured the human body and mind. He configured the universe without humanity’s help. He even gave structure through his Word for his body, the church. God provided a framework for wisdom and intelligence. He has provided structure through his grace and truth, outlining the way of redemption for all humankind. He has even given us glimpses into how heaven is structured. While celebrating Jesus' birth today, recognize our Creator’s carefully crafted master plan and strive to embrace his commandments in daily life.
Organize your life around God’s structure—his Word.
Jim Dunn is the president of Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OK). He previously served as the executive director of Church Multiplication and Discipleship for The Wesleyan Church.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
