The First Order of Responsibility

From the Pastor: Dr. M. J. Seymour, Sr.

“Then on that day David delivered first this psalm to thank the LORD into the hand of Asaph and his brethren. Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people.” (I Chron. 16:7-8)

In the day the Ark of God was brought up to Jerusalem, the entire nation of Israel rejoiced greatly. King David had a tent pitched and the Ark of the Covenant was placed within it. Now time had come to leave off the indulgences of self gratification. It was time to turn to the God of the Ark; but how does one begin his approach to the holy throne of the Most High God? David knew!

The idea behind the term “first” is that David delivered the first order of responsibility that would enable them to approach correctly and respectfully the Almighty God. It was and is a matter of the utmost importance, if any individual or assembly desires to be accepted. Forethought is essential to the preservation of His dignity. To storm into God’s presence unrestrained is vulgarly sinful.

The first order of responsibility is subdivided into three categories. Firstly, all must begin with the giving of thanks. The absence of thanksgiving is the mark of ungrateful brats. If we are unthankful in what we have already received, how shall we deem it reasonable to give us more of heaven’s abundance? Shall our gracious God continue to waste His benevolence on those who have no conscience seeded with the privilege and duty of thanksgivings?

Secondly, those who would worship correctly must call upon His Name. Did not the model prayer of Jesus begin with “our Father”? Should not our prayers be addressed and spoken to the right person? Do we know upon whom we call and pray? Call upon His Name!

Thirdly, the recipients of great blessings from the Father’s hand are to make His deeds known unto all. Tell others of all of His wondrous works from the beginning of the world. The first order of responsibility is to give the fullness of our thanksgivings unto God.