Bible Pathway - Feb. 15, 2010
Highlights:
The princes' gifts and sacrifices offered for the dedication of the Tabernacle. The voice of one speaking to Moses from the Mercy Seat.
Verses for Today:
The princes of Israel, heads of the house of their fathers . . . 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 (Num. 7:2-5).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. Although these leaders could not hold the positions of the Levites, they willingly brought generous, sacrificial gifts to supply the needs of the Levites.
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.
The Tabernacle illustrates the loving concern of God to communicate and to fellowship with His people and to direct them through life.
These gifts were divided among the Levites to every man according to his service (7:5). The family of the Gershonites received two wagons and four oxen for their duties (comp. 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. 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 Candlestick of Pure Gold, Table of Shewbread, Altar of Incense, Brass Laver, Brasen 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.
As by faith a Christian gives to the Lord's work, both his desire to give and his ability to give increase. Your gift to missions can lift burdens, provide happiness, and answer prayers.
God has said: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete (measure) withal it shall be measured to you again (Luke 6:38).
Thought for Today:
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33).
Christ Revealed:
Through the voluntary offerings of the leaders which were sufficient to meet the needs (Num. 7). Jesus gave His life to meet our very need. My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).
Word Studies:
7:13 charger =large dish; 7:21 bullock =young bull; 7:44 spoon =bowl.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Country: Yemen (17 million) in southwestern Arabia • Major language: Arabic • Attempts to convert Muslims to Christ are fiercely opposed • 98% Muslim; .03% Christian (all secret believers) • Prayer Suggestion: Remember, what is impossible with men is possible with God (Matt. 19:26).
Optional Reading: Luke 2
Memory Verse for the Week: Exodus 20:12
