Definition: And to the genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through all the congregation: for in their set office they sanctified themselves in holiness:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Chronicles 31:18. It’s a pretty poetic and profound statement about God’s relationship with His people! Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God consciously chose and valued the Israelites (and all of their descendants) to be a special, holy group. He didn’t just allow them to exist; he actively protected and cherished them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And to the genealogy…” : This means God is looking back at the very beginnings of Israel – from their ancestors all the way back to the beginning of time. It's a historical record. “…of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters…” : This lists everything that was connected to the Israelites – their children (the "little ones"), their spouses, and their descendants. It’s a comprehensive list of everything they were. “…through all the congregation:” This is key! “Congregation” means a group or assembly. So this means all of Israel – the entire nation. “For in their set office…” : This is where it gets interesting. "Set office" suggests a specific, important role or position they held. It’s not just any job; it's a designated place where they were valued and protected. “…they sanctified themselves in holiness:” This means God made them holy – that is, set apart from the world and worthy of his favor. He chose them to be pure and right. So, putting it all together: 2 Chronicles 31:18 says that God intentionally chose and valued the Israelites, and he protected them with a special purpose – to live a life of holiness (being set apart from the world) and to fulfill their designated roles as a group. What does this mean for us today? It’s a reminder that God values those who are faithful and righteous. It also suggests that we should strive to be good people, to do what is right, and to live a life that honors Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you a different example of how this principle applies in the Bible?