Numbers 2 - Places Everyone

God is a God of order. When He spoke in creation, form emerged out of chaos. When we speak to Him in our moments of crisis, He can bring peace and order even in the face if overwhelming strife. In the life of every believer He infuses spiritual gifts that enable us to function in a special way within the body that allow us to function according to God's order.  

In this chapter, we see each tribe with their men able to serve in their military numbered and now ordered. Tribe by tribe, God place them around the tabernacle. Each tribe has a standard or a symbol as a visual identifier for their group. 

EAST: Judah, Issachar and Zebulun

SOUTH: Reuben, Simeon and Gad

CENTER: Levi

WEST: Ephriam, Manasseh and Benjamin

NORTH: Dan, Asher and Naphtali

Notice even though God had a place for each tribe and a separate identification, they were also sent out as a team. They worked together with the other tribes and moved in the order they were assigned with Judah as their leader (Num 2:9). 

Everyone is called by God to honor him and to join his people to bring God glory in their conduct. Everyone has a place and a role to serve. God does not want anyone to be lost or disengaged. 

I think of a testimony shared on Joni and Friends radio program recently. She shared about two siblings who had a rare disorder that left them paralyzed, blind and deaf. What hardship could be greater? Yet these children were faithful in praying for others in need. As Joni travels they are praying. I am sure their list is long with prayer needs. Two children who are in need themselves find a place in God's kingdom to serve. 

Dear friend, we are without excuse if we have not engaged in service. God has specially equipped and placed us for a ministry that allows God's light to shine brightly in a dark world. Will we hide our light?  

As we go out to serve, know you are not alone.  There is a team sent out with you. We are to function in the body but also in the world together. I have a friend that is always ready to join into a service project if I get the notion to take something on. I know I can depend on her whenever there is a job to do. She works with no accolades but is always faithful. That's what God is looking for in His servants. Will you consider today where has God placed you and how has he equipped you for service?  Where is you team that you can serve with?  We all fit somewhere and we don't have to look far to see a need we can meet. 

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you serve Him.