26:1 There were 4,000 porters (23:5), or gatekeepers. They were all Levites and did many other jobs as well. Some of their duties included (1) checking out the equipment and utensils used each day and making sure they were returned, (2) storing, ordering, and maintaining the food supplies for the priests and sacrifices, (3) caring for the furniture, (4) mixing the incense that was burned daily, and (5) accounting for the gifts brought. (For more on gatekeepers, see the note on 9:17, 18.)
26:5 The status of children in society has fluctuated throughout history; sometimes they are highly esteemed, and sometimes abused and cheated. But Scripture shows no such vacillation—children are called a gift from the Lord, and God never views them as a burden (Psalm 127:3-5; Mark 10:13-15).
26:12 The porters ministered in God’s house—that is, they served there. The word minister originally meant “servant.” Thus all of us who assist in the Lord’s work are ministers. So if we teach, cook, or visit the sick we should do it “as unto the Lord.” He regards what we do even if no one else notices.
26:27 War plunder rightfully belonged to the victorious army. These soldiers, however, gave their portion of all the plunder to the house of the Lord to express their dedication to God. Like these commanders, we should think of what we can give, rather than what we are obligated to give. Is your giving a matter of rejoicing rather than duty? Give as a response of joy and love for God.