This is a simplified version of the Bible story found in Numbers 10:11-36, written for children to understand. For the original version, please refer to the Bible passage.
A long time ago, after staying at the same place at Mt. Sinai for a while, God told to the people of Israel it was time to move to a new place. They packed up their things, took down their tents, and started to travel.
The people of Judah were the first to start moving, led by Nahshon. Then, the people of Issachar, led by Nethanel, and the people of Zebulun, led by Eliab, followed. Next, the sons of Gershon and Merari, who carried the tabernacle, began to move. After them, the people of Reuben, led by Elizur, the people of Simeon, led by Shelumiel, and the people of Gad, led by Eliasaph, started to move.
Then, the Kohathites carried the holy things, and the tabernacle was set up before they arrived. After that, the people of Ephraim, led by Elishama, the people of Manasseh, led by Gamaliel, and the people of Benjamin, led by Abidan, started moving. Finally, the people of Dan acted as the rear guard and moved, led by Ahiezer, along with the people of Asher, led by Pagiel, and the people of Naphtali, led by Ahira.
As they traveled, Moses asked his father-in-law Hobab to come with them, but he said he wanted to go back home. Moses asked him to stay and help them with their journey because he knew the land and could be their eyes. Hobab agreed and joined them on their journey.
As they traveled, they knew that God was with them because a special cloud was over them during the day. When the ark of the covenant moved, Moses said a special prayer to ask God to protect them. He said, “Arise, O Lord, and let your enemies be scattered, and let those who hate you flee before you.” And when the ark rested, he said, “Return, O Lord, to the ten thousand thousands of Israel.”
Biblical Lessons
- Even when we don’t know where we’re going, we can trust that God has a plan for us and will guide us along the way.
- God’s presence is with us always, and we can feel His love and protection wherever we go.
- It’s important to work together as a team and to have leaders who can help us along the way.
- Just like Moses asked for help and guidance from his father-in-law, we should ask for help and guidance from those who have more experience and knowledge than we do.
- Change can be scary, but it can also be exciting and lead to new opportunities and adventures.