Suggested Bible Reading: Numbers 7
Devotional Thought:
This is the longest chapter in Numbers and one of the longest in the Bible. It gives a list of the gifts devoted to the Tabernacle by the twelve leaders of their respective tribes. Much of the chapter seems nothing more than mere repetition. The details may seem to be set out in a tedious and monotonous tone, but there is need to see the great care of the Holy Spirit in faithfully recording the whole incident, and why He does so. Because of these minute details it is easy to assume that it has nothing much to offer in the way of fresh thoughts or spiritual lessons. Some of these types of passages seem to offer little in the way of application, but God’s inspired and infallible Word has a meaning and message for its diligent and devoted reader. What may appear dry and uninteresting in the Holy Scriptures is never without its significance. This chapter can be divided into three main sections, which contain most helpful lessons on (1) affection and propensity (vs. 1-9), (2) approach and purpose (vs. 10-83), and (3) appreciation and perspective (vs. 84-88). The uniqueness of this portion of scripture is also seen in the last verse of the chapter. “And when Moses was gone into the tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, then he heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that was upon the ark of testimony, from between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him.” In verse two, the men who offered these gifts were spiritual leaders of the nation and contrast most sharply with the leaders of the rebellion recorded in chapter 16. The leaders of chapter 7 furthered the work of God. Note that the twelve princes were the heads of each of the tribes. No tribe was without leadership. Similarly, no church or Christian organization should be without leaders. Leaders of God’s people today should make sure that all that they do furthers God’s work, as opposed to hampering it. It is good when leaders among the people of God show an example in acts of devotion and worship, and also seek to promote that which is due to God in the gatherings of His people. Moses was an example that affected the leaders of every tribe, which in turn affected the people of their individual tribes. What a great chapter on how leaders should lead the way for proper affection, approach, and appreciation in worship.
Prayer Requests:
• Lord, please help me to properly develop and encourage the staff you have given to me. Thank you for the incredible gift they are to me.
• Lord, thank you for reminding us of the detail in leadership. Help me to never get discouraged or distracted in the importance of details in leadership.
• Lord, please help me to model my leadership after the meekness of Moses.