Numbers 8:23-26 (NLT) — 23 The LORD also instructed Moses, 24 "This is the rule the Levites must follow: They must begin serving in the Tabernacle at the age of twenty-five, 25 and they must retire at the age of fifty. 26 After retirement they may assist their fellow Levites by serving as guards at the Tabernacle, but they may not officiate in the service. This is how you must assign duties to the Levites."

1. Next is FOLLOWING

• The Levites spent the first 25 years of their lives watching and learning.
• We are called to a lifetime of FOLLOWING Jesus.
• Matthew 19:16 - The Rich Young Ruler - Good isn’t always the same as following.
• What it means to follow:
  • Believe His Words
  • Imitate His Character
  • Obey His Commands

2. Next is SERVING

• The Levites began their service at the age of 25.
• All of us have a gift, a place to serve.
• 1 Corinthians 12:4-5 (NLT) — 4 There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source of them all. 5 There are different kinds of service, but we serve the same Lord.
• The opposite of serving is being served. There is a time to be served, and a time to serve.
  • Jesus washing the disciples feet, and then telling them to do the same.
  • Matthew 20:28 (NLT) — 28 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."

3. Next is FAITHFUL

• The Levites served faithfully for 25 years.
• Many believers get disinterested and quit, maybe what’s next for you is to be faithful.
• Galatians 6:9 (NLT) — 9 So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.
• 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NLT) — 58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.

4. Next is GUARDING

• After retirement, the Levites would mentor the younger Levites and guard.
• Titus 2:2-4 (NLT) — 2 Teach the older men to exercise self-control, to be worthy of respect, and to live wisely. They must have sound faith and be filled with love and patience. 3 Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. 4 These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children,
• My charge to mature believers:
  • Guard the teaching
  • Guard the lifestyle
  • Guard through prayer
  • Guard through mentoring
  • Do not die without passing on an spiritual inheritance