Numbers 2
Explanation and Bible story for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 3-6)
The Explanation
Look, a very big camp. So many tents you cannot count them. This is the people of Israel. God has taken them out of Egypt. Now they are walking through the desert to a new land.
But wait. Where does everyone sleep? Where does everyone stand? With so many people it becomes a mess. Then God says something to Moses. Listen carefully.
"Moses," says God. "I will tell you where everyone belongs."
In the middle stands one special tent. That is God's tent. God lives right in the middle of His people. Is that not wonderful?
Around God's tent stand all the other tents. Neatly in four groups. One group in the east. Where the sun rises. One group in the south. One group in the west. And one group in the north.
Each group has its own flag. A beautiful flag, high in the air. So everyone can see: here I belong. This is my place.
What Does This Mean?
God knows exactly where every person belongs. He does not forget anyone. Not one tent. Not one child. Not one mommy or daddy.
And look where God is. In the middle. Right in the middle of His people. God is not far away. God is close.
The Common Thread
Long, long later comes Jesus. Jesus wants to be close to people too. Very close. Just like God's tent in the middle of the camp.
Jesus says, "I am with you. Always." That is a beautiful promise.
You do not have to look far to find God. He is close. Very close.
For You
Do you know what is nice? God knows exactly where you are. In your bed. In the car. At the table. In the yard.
You have your own place too. In your own house. With your own mommy or daddy. That is your place. God gave that to you.
And God is close. When you eat. When you play. When you sleep. God sees you. God knows your name.
Sometimes you feel small. There are so many people in the world. But God does not forget you. Never. Just like He did not forget one single tent in the desert.
You belong. You have a place. And God is close.
Talk About It
Where is your own place at home? Show it.
Who is always close to you? And who else is always with you, that you cannot see?
Praying Together
Dear God,
Thank You that You are close.
Thank You for my house.
Thank You for my bed.
Thank You that You know my name.
I love You.
Amen.
Questions about Numbers 2
Short answers for anyone reading about this for the first time.
What is Numbers 2 about?
What does Numbers 2 say?
What does Numbers 2 teach us about God?
What can toddlers learn from Numbers 2?
Why is Numbers 2 an important Bible story?
What others discovered
Judah camped on the east, first to break camp and lead the march. "All who were counted of the camp of Judah were one hundred eighty-six thousand four hundred, according to their divisions. They shall set out first."
Judah means praise. God arranged His people so that praise led the way through the wilderness. Before the ark, before the fighting, before the daily miles, praise went first. What leads your march today? Maybe worry has taken the front position that praise was meant to hold.
Looking for something for slightly older children?
We also have dedicated versions for elementary age (7-12) and teens (12 and up).
Open in the Children's Bible tool
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