1. Camp around the tent of meeting (1-8)

God dwelt in the midst of his people. When they camped or when they marched, his sanctuary was in the center. In the heart of the sanctuary was the Bible. God established order in this undisciplined bunch of slaves. Each tribe was assigned a definite place to camp. The sanctuary was in the center, and the Levites were stationed around it. Four tribes were designated as leading tribes and were assigned positions: Judah on the east, Reuben on the south, Ephraim on the west and Dan on the north. The other tribes were arranged under these. When God dwells in our midst, there is spiritual order in our human relations.

2. Marching orders (9-34)

When they set out, Judah's division broke camp and set out first, their banner unfurled above them; then, Reuben and his divisions. The Levites carrying the tent of meeting marched in the middle. After them followed the remaining six tribes.

Application: Lord, help us to keep you in the center of our lives when we camp and when we march.
One Word: God dwells with his people