Bible Study: Living in Harmony
Living in Harmony 02.15.08
Hello My Friend/Guest,
It is Friday February 15, 2008 and todaye we are continuing our studies on the book of Numbers. Please read, Numbers 7. In today's lesson we will read and learn about the princes' offerings for the dedication of the Tabernacle.
The princes recognized the needs of the Levites and desired to cooperate with them in the spirit of godly love. "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 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 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). The princes of the tribes could not participate in the duties of the Tabernacle; but through their offerings, they were able to assist the Levites in their God-appointed responsibilities. Since the leaders could not hold the spiritual position of preeminence, as did the Levites, they could have expressed a spirit of jealousy and given little or nothing to help them. But, instead, they willingly brought generous, sacrificial gifts to supply the needs of the Levites.
These gifts were not equally divided among the Levites. The family of the Gershonites received two wagons and four oxen for their duties. The Merarites, who had much heavier burdens to bear received four wagons and eight oxen. But, to the sons of Kohath he gave none because they were required to personally carry the Tabernacle furniture. "And Moses took the wagons and the oxen, and gave them unto the Levites. Two wagons and four oxen he gave unto the sons of Gershon, according to their service: And four wagons and eight oxen he gave unto the sons of Merari, according unto their service, under the hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest. But 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." (7:6-9). Although they were not aware of it, each item was an expression of a characteristic of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ our Lord. Now they would be eased from this burden by these generous gifts.
Although all the gifts were identical, each prince was recognized for his gift. Among other things, 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 at Mount Sinai illustrates the concern of God to communicate with His people and to lovingly direct them through the desert to the promised land. All the princes revealed their gratitude to God by responding to the need The largest tribe did not crowd out the smallest tribe, but each was allowed the opportunity to give.
Since the offerings from each of the princes were exactly the same, it may seem monotonous to read all the details that were given for each one. But the repetition reveals the significance God places on every sacrifice given to support His ministry. Our individual offerings may seem small to us, but everyone and every gift is important. God gives equal recognition not only to the giver but to those who receive them to be used for His glory.
What a thrilling experience to observe this harmony in the people of God working together and caring for one another. The offering of the princes of the tribes manifested a thoughfulness which only the Spirit of God can create in the hearts of His people when they are dedicated to God. What an encouragement to the Levites to see others who were concerned enough to share the load.
In today's lesson Jesus Christ is revealed through the voluntary offerings of the leaders which were sufficient to meet the needs. Jesus gave His life to meet our every need. "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19).
Today's Psalm: 47:9
"The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted."
Today's Prayer: From Psalm 71:1-5
In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion. Deliver me in thy righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me. Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress. Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth.
Have a wonderful day/night and weekend, be blessed knowing that God is with you always. Thank God It's Friday.
God Bless You,
Christina
