Bible Pathways 02/15/2003
Read Numbers 7
In Today 's Reading:
The princes' offerings for the dedication of the tabernacle
When Moses finished setting up the tabernacle, he anointed and consecrated it and all its equipment. At the same time he anointed and consecrated the altar and all its equipment. The chiefs of Israel - the patriarchal family heads - presented offerings. . . . They brought their offerings before the LORD - six covered carts and 12 oxen: a cart for every two chiefs and an ox for each one - and presented them in front of the tabernacle. The LORD said to Moses, Take these carts and oxen from them, as they will be used in the transportation of the tent of meeting. Give them to the Levites, to each according to his transportation work (Numbers 7:1-5).
These gifts were not equally divided among the Levites. The family of the Gershonites received two carts and four oxen for their duties (compare Numbers 4:25-26; 7:7). The Merarites, who had much heavier burdens to bear (4:31-32; 7:8), received four carts and eight oxen. But the Kohathites received none. They were required to carry the tabernacle furniture, but Moses did not give any to the Kohathites because the transportation of the holy objects was (to be) carried . . . on their shoulders, including the pure gold lampstand, table of the Presence, gold altar of incense, bronze basin, bronze altar, and mercy seat on the ark of the Lord's covenant (4:1-5; 3:29-31; 7:9). These were all symbolic of Jesus Christ.
Although all the gifts were identical, each chief was recognized for his gift. From this we learn that every gift and act of service to our Lord is faithfully remembered. Mount Sinai is often associated with the severity of the law. But the tabernacle that was built there illustrates the loving concern of God to communicate and fellowship with His people, and to direct them through life. All the princes revealed their gratitude through their generous freewill gifts. All responded equally to the need.
Giving always benefits the giver. Your gift to missions can lift burdens, provide happiness, answer prayers, and save a soul from eternal hell. God has said: Give, and it will be given to you; a good measure . . . running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure that you use, it will be measured back to you (Luke 6:38).
Christ Revealed:
Through the voluntary offerings of the leaders which were sufficient to meet the needs (Numbers 7). Jesus gave His life to meet our every need. My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).
Prayer Needs:
Government Officials: Rep. Terry Everett (AL) · Country: Peru (27 million) on the western coast of South America · Major languages: Spanish and Quechua · Open to evangelism and Bible distribution · 89% Roman Catholic; 4% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His love (Psalms 63:3).
Optional Reading: Luke 2
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:9
