“And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him after the judgment of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, both he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.”
Context:The book of Numbers is part of the Torah, which is the first five books of the Bible, also known as the Pentateuch. In this particular chapter, the daughters of Zelophehad approached Moses and the leaders of Israel, requesting an inheritance in the Promised Land since their father had died without any sons. Moses sought God’s guidance in this matter, and the Lord instructed him on how to handle the situation.
Meaning and Significance:Seeking Counsel:The verse highlights the importance of seeking counsel from God. Moses was instructed to consult Eleazar the priest, who would inquire of the Lord on behalf of the people. This demonstrates the significance of seeking God’s guidance and wisdom in making decisions. In our lives, we should also seek God’s counsel through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking wise spiritual advisors. The Judgment of Urim:The verse mentions the judgment of Urim, which refers to the Urim and Thummim, sacred objects used by the high priest to discern God’s will. The Urim and Thummim were likely stones or objects used for casting lots or making decisions through divine revelation. This highlights the Israelites’ reliance on God’s direct guidance and their faith in His ability to communicate His will to them. Obedience and Unity:The verse emphasizes the importance of obedience and unity among the Israelites. It states that the people would go out and come in “at his word”, referring to the high priest’s instructions received through God’s counsel. This implies that the people were expected to follow the high priest’s guidance obediently, demonstrating their trust in God’s appointed leader. It also highlights the need for unity within the community of believers, as all the children of Israel were to go in and out together. Leadership and Accountability:The verse mentions Eleazar the priest, who served as a leader and intermediary between God and the people. This highlights the importance of godly leadership and accountability. The high priest was responsible for seeking counsel from the Lord on behalf of the people, ensuring that their actions were aligned with God’s will. Similarly, in our lives, it is essential to have leaders who are spiritually mature and accountable to God, guiding and shepherding the people under their care.
Application:Seek God’s Counsel:In our decision-making processes, we should seek God’s counsel through prayer, studying the Scriptures, and seeking wisdom from mature believers. By doing so, we can align our actions with God’s will and experience His guidance in our lives. Obedience and Unity:Just as the Israelites were expected to follow the instructions of the high priest, we should strive for obedience and unity within the body of Christ. This involves submitting to godly leadership, respecting one another, and working together as a unified community to fulfill God’s purposes. Leadership and Accountability:If you are in a position of leadership or influence, it is essential to seek guidance from God and be accountable to Him. Strive to lead with integrity, humility, and a heart that seeks God’s will for the benefit of those under your care. Surround yourself with wise and godly advisors who can offer counsel and hold you accountable. Remember, the Bible is a rich source of wisdom and guidance for our lives. By studying and applying its teachings, we can grow in our faith and live according to God’s will.
