Work
Devotion 6: And Then Some
Dr. Randy T. Johnson
“On the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony, and behold, the staff of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds.” Numbers 17:8
God Almighty does not deal with ordinary people in simple ordinary ways. He is a God of the Extra Ordinary. In Numbers chapter 17, God displays His willingness to go over and above the call of duty. Korah’s rebellion caused immense confusion and complaining throughout Israel. A battle over leadership had surfaced. So, God set up a test to distinguish whom He had chosen to lead Israel. The staff belonging to the man He chose would sprout. One leader from each of the tribes of Israel picked a staff, wrote his name on it, and gave it to Moses. Moses then placed the staff before the Lord in the Tent of the Testimony. The next day when Moses entered the Tent, he immediately spotted Aaron’s staff. Yes, Aaron’s staff sprouted. However, it more than just sprouted. In just one night, it sprouted, budded, blossomed, and produced almonds! God had agreed to perform a miracle so the people would realize the leader was truly chosen by Him. God not only spoke through the miracle, but He also shouted. He had the staff sprout – And Then Some.
“And said to Moses, ‘The people bring much more than enough for doing the work that the Lord has commanded us to do.’” Exodus 36:5
Moses heads up the construction of the sanctuary in Exodus chapter 36. God has chosen Bezalel, Oholiab, and every skilled person to do the actual work on the sanctuary. God has gifted them and now gives them the opportunity to express their talent. All of Israel was invited to contribute offerings for the tabernacle. Verse five says the people brought more than enough for doing the work.
After understanding how God has gone way over of what could be expected in His relationship to us, it is only natural to respond back in like manner – And Then Some.
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24
Christians should be the best employees ever. They should be known for honesty, teamwork, encouragement, and a full day’s work. They should be known for going over and above the call of duty.
The difference between the ordinary and extraordinary Christian lies in just three words – And Then Some.