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.
Related Stories
Must-Read Christian Books
Holiness
A rich, pastoral treatment of sin, sanctification, and the fight for holiness in the Christian life, deeply rooted in Scripture.
View on Amazon
The Holiness of God
Sproul unfolds the blazing holiness of God and why a right fear of the Lord is vital to true worship.
View on Amazon
Chosen by God
A clear, pastoral explanation of biblical election and God's sovereignty in salvation.
View on Amazon
The Enemy Within
A modern, accessible summary of John Owen's teaching on indwelling sin and the believer's battle.
View on Amazon
Overcoming Sin and Temptation
A classic Puritan work on mortifying sin and living in the power of the Spirit.
View on Amazon
According to Plan
An introduction to biblical theology that shows how all Scripture points to Christ.
View on Amazon
Nine Marks of a Healthy Church
Outlines nine biblical priorities for congregations that want to be faithful and healthy.
View on Amazon
Communion with God
Explores how believers enjoy distinct fellowship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
View on Amazon
A Body of Divinity
A warm, devotional exposition of the Westminster Shorter Catechism's doctrines.
View on Amazon
The Heidelberg Catechism
A beloved Reformation catechism that teaches comfort in Christ through a Q&A format.
View on Amazon
The Westminster Confession of Faith
A historic confession that systematically sets forth Reformed theology from Scripture.
View on Amazon
Christ-Centered Worship
Traces historic worship patterns and shows how to shape Christ-focused services today.
View on Amazon
The Gospel Comes with a House Key
A call to radical, everyday hospitality as a means of gospel witness and discipleship.
View on Amazon
The Glory of Christ
Calls believers to behold the glory of Christ as the great means of transformation.
View on Amazon
The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness
Shows how the gospel frees us from self-obsession to live in joy and service.
View on Amazon
Idols of the Heart
Helps believers identify and repent of heart-idols through the lens of Scripture.
View on Amazon