On the radio/Internet program I do as part of my work at Herald of Truth, I’ve been going through the book of Numbers. There was a section that stood out to me that I hadn’t thought about before. In Chapter 10, Moses approaches his brother-in-law, Hobab, and begs him to accompany the group. In Moses’ words: “You know where we should camp in the desert, and you can be our eyes.” (Numbers 10:31)

Then almost immediately following, we read a description of how God led them through the wilderness with the cloudy/fiery pillar. Among other things, it says, “The ark of the covenant of the LORD went before them during those three days to find them a place to rest.” (Numbers 10:33)

There are more than one way to understand this passage, but I see in it a picture of how God led His people and how He still leads His people. Some of the guidance was solely divine in nature, like the ark (pillar) guiding the people to a place of rest. Along with that heavenly direction, there were also skilled and knowledgeable men that God used to provide what His people needed.

I think that God continues to work in both ways. No, I don’t believe we’ll see a pillar of fire leading us to where we should go. (though I hope I wouldn’t be so arrogant as to refuse to follow it if God did choose that method again) But I do believe that God goes beyond mere human talents and provides heavenly wisdom for the church. And, as Ephesians 4:11-12 says, God provides spiritual leaders that prepare His body for works of service.

We need both: human talents and God-given direction.