I’ve preached this verse, a number of years ago. But in its whole context, and with a different emphasis than the “Spirit” aspect … which we shall adopt today.

In Numbers 11:25 (part of it anyway) this beautiful little statement is made, a fact observed. “And it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease.” The recipients of the Spirit here being the 70 brethren selected to help Moses minister to the Nation of Israel.

And just one verse later, speaking this time of two men (yet still among the 70) we are told: “There remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.” Numbers 11:26

In both cases note with me that once the Spirit came upon these leaders, they “prophesied!”

The lesson here, surely: There can be no real prophesying (preaching) apart from the “touch” of the Holy Spirit of God!

The verb “prophesied” translates “naba” in Hebrew. To speak “under the influence” of another! Here under the Guidance of Almighty God.

I’m writing this on a Thursday morning. Sunday is coming. Ask the Lord to empower your Preacher this week (even more so than usual) with His Spirit, the Holy Spirit.

And oh, what preaching that sweet man will do!

Also be aware that the Spirit “rested” on these men! This verb (here an infinitive, representing lasting or durative action) is “nuach,” meaning “to settle down, to lay upon, to be quiet (at peace), to remain,” and once even “to be confederate” with a person!

Wow!

Yes, that should be the desire of every man of God.

There’s a song, a hymn:

“Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me!”

What a thought!

What a prayer!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell