Since there were Temple officials and spiritual leaders among the descendants of both Eleazar and Ithamar, assignments were made by drawing lots. 1 Chronicles 24:5 GNT

This struck me odd, only in the sense that it made me question my spiritual thinking when it comes to identifying and choosing what my strengths and skillsets are, the tasks I volunteer for, even my own calling. Since I do it for myself, I find that I want to do it for others too.

I find I pray a lot, sense the peace of God when making decisions, and see the moving of His hand in appropriate areas of my life to confirm or deny the things I bring before Him.

There was a direct sense of not looking at these men with the understanding of the giftedness, skill or training, but rather, who did God want doing what? And since we look with our ears, eyes and mind and God looks at the heart, this was the only way to determine it appropriately. I never heard anyone complaining when this method was used in other areas of decision making. Solomon even stated that the drawing of lots resolved disputes between two powerful contenders.

There are 88 accounts in the Old Testament and 7 in the New where lots were drawn and God did not step in to say that it was wrong. He moved in those opportunities to ensure His will was done.

I am sure that no one today practices this, even though I know I tried to determine my mission field this way (Japan). Prayer is more the determining factor. But I still wonder sometimes 🙂

Prayer brings power into our work. If we wish power for any work to which God calls us, be it preaching, teaching, personal work, or the rearing of our children, we can get it by earnest prayer. – R. A. Torrey