Numbers chapter 11 verses 26-30 (NIV)
However, two men, whose names were Eldad and Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but did not go out to the tent. Yet the Spirit also rested on them, and they prophesied in the camp. A young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.” Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses’ aide since youth, spoke up and said, “Moses, my lord, stop them!” But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD’s people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!” Then Moses and the elders of Israel returned to the camp.
1 Corinthians chapter 7 verse 7 (NIV)
I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.
God had told Moses that He would empower elders of Israel to be able to assist in the governing of the people. He had told Moses to bring the elders to the Tent of Meeting where the Holy Spirit would come upon them. Here, however we read that two of the elders didn’t go. We don’t know why. Maybe they were unclean in some way. Nevertheless the Holy Spirit moved on them in the same power. Joshua, who was still young, was concerned and asked Moses to stop them. Perhaps he was concerned they were offending God. But Moses told him there was no reason to be jealous. Indeed, he wished all God’s people were under the same anointing. Things would have gone much easier if that had been true. Paul had the same attitude as Moses, but recognised that God would choose to move on whoever He chose.
We too need to be careful not to make judgements if we see God moving in a way we don’t expect, or through others in a way that is different to what we are used to. We need to focus on what God wants us to do. If we are uncomfortable, then we can always ask God for guidance, or even do as John told us, to test the spirits, (See 1 John Chapter 4 verse 1) Our concern should first of all be that we ourselves are being obedient to what God asks from us. He will look after the rest.
Dear Lord,
Thank You that You bestow gifts on each of us as You see fit. Help me to ensure that I use the gifts You have given me wisely and for Your Glory. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.