Organizational changes can test our loyalty. If we are not careful, we could even allow them to separate us from Jehovah. For example, consider how an organizational change under the Mosaic Law may have affected some Israelites. Before the Law was instituted, family heads performed priestly duties. They built altars and sacrificed to Jehovah on behalf of their families. (Genesis 8:20, 21; 12:7; 26:25; 35:1, 6, 7; Job 1:5) But when the was instituted, family heads had to let go of that privilege. Jehovah appointed priests from Aaron's family to offer sacrifices. After that organizational change was put into effect, if a family head who was not one of Aaron's descendants began acting as priests, he could be put to death. (Leviticus 17:3-6, 8, 9) Was this change perhaps one of the reasons why Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, 250 chieftains challenged Moses' and Aaron's authority? (Numbers 16:1-3) We cannot say for sure. Whatever the case, Korah and his associates failed to remain loyal to Jehovah. If organizational changes test your loyalty, what can you do?
Fully support organizational changes. During their travels in the wilderness, the Kohathites cared for a prominent assignment. Each time the Israelites moved camp, some of the Kohathites carried the ark of the covenant before all the people. (Numbers 3:29, 31; 10:33; Joshua 3:2-4) What a privilege! However, things changed for them when the Israelites settled in the Promised Land. The Ark no longer needed to be moved regularly. So by the time Solomon ruled as king, some Kohathites were assigned to work as singers, some served as gatekeepers, and others cared for storehouses. (1 Chronicles 6:31-33; 26:1, 24) There is no record that the Kohathites complained or demanded a more prominent role because of their rich heritage. What lesson can we learn? Wholeheartedly support changes that Jehovah's organization makes, including any that affect your assignment. Find joy in whatever assignment you are given. Remember that your assignment does not reflect your worth as a person. Jehovah values your obedience far more than any assignment. - 1 SAMUEL 15:22.
Next time: Keep Your Senses When Your Loyalty Is Tested - WHEN WE STRUGGLE TO ADAPT TO ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES
From the jw.org publications
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