Monday, August 3, 2009
Numbers 2:17 And the tabernacle of meeting shall move out with the camp of the Levites in the middle of the camps; as they camp, so they shall move out, everyone in his place, by their standards.
THINGS YOU MIGHT SAY WHEN YOU GO CAMPING:
"HOW SHOULD WE SET UP CAMP?”
Are you a camper? Do you like to get out in the woods? Pitch a tent under the stars? Roll your sleeping bag out on the hard, cold ground? I think true blue campers are becoming a rare breed. Most people's idea of camping today involves a motor home equipped with every luxury known to man.
In our devotions this week, we'll be considering things you might say when (if) you go camping. Then, of course, we'll make a spiritual application.
The first thing you might say: "How should we set up camp?"
Veteran campers consider this question carefully. For example, when setting up camp one looks for high, level ground for the tent. If you have a vehicle, it's best not to park it too close to the campfire. Food storage is another important consideration. Little varmints, and not-so-little varmints, are always looking for an easy midnight snack.
The above verse from Numbers speaks of the Israelites setting up camp during their trek through the wilderness. No fancy accommodations for them--tent camping all the way!
More importantly, it was the LORD who gave them specific instructions as to how they should set up their camp. Each tribe was assigned a spot, with the tabernacle (the tent church) at the center. The message was obvious for them and for us. Keep the LORD at the center of your life. Make His sure Word your foundation, His blood-bought forgiveness your peace, His promise of Heaven your certain hope.
As we "pitch our tent" in this world--en-route to our home above--we need the LORD at the center of camp. That's where He belongs. How blessed we are when it is so.
