Bible Pathways - February 15, 2006

February 15, 2006

In Today's Reading:

The princes' offerings for the dedication of the Tabernacle

And it came to pass on the day that Moses had fully set up the Tabernacle, and had anointed it, and sanctified it, and all the instruments thereof, both the altar and all the vessels thereof, and had anointed them, and sanctified them; That the princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers, who were the princes of the tribes, and (who) were over them that were numbered, offered: And they brought their offering before the LORD, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the Tabernacle. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Take it of them, that they may be to do the service (used in the work) of the Tabernacle of the congregation; and thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service (Numbers 7:1-5).

These gifts were not equally divided among the Levites. The family of the Gershonites received two wagons 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 wagons and eight oxen, but the Kohathites received none. They were required to carry the Tabernacle furniture: Unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders, the Golden Candlestick, Table of Showbread, Altar of Incense, Laver of Brass, Brazen Altar, and Mercy Seat on the Ark of the Lord's Covenant (7:9; also 3:29-31; 4:1-15). These were all symbolic of Jesus Christ.

Although all the gifts were identical, each prince 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 for 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 shall be given unto you; good measure . . . running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal (give to benefit others) it shall be measured to you again (Luke 6:38).

Word Studies:

7:13 charger = large dish; 7:21 bullock = young bull; 7:44 spoon = bowl.

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 shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).

Prayer Needs:

Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Mrs. Mildred McHugh and in memory of Viola Beam · The Arabic International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Agnes A. Shaeffer · Staff: Ken Sharp · Government Official: Rep. Terry Everett (AL) · Country: Iraq (22 million) in southern Asia · Major languages: Arabic and Kurdish · Fierce harassment of non-Muslims · 96% Muslim; 3% Christian · Prayer Suggestion: Let your faith in the Word of God overrule all fears (Proverbs 3:6).

Optional Reading: Luke 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 12:14