God surveys the number of Israeli soldiers apart from the priesthood (Numbers 1 2-3, 49-50)

I want you and Aaron to find out how many people are in each of Israel's clans and families. And make a list of all the men twenty years and older who are able to fight in battle. The total number of men registered by Moses, Aaron, and the twolve leaders was 603,550. When you count the Israelites, do not include those from the Levi tribe. Instead, give them the job of caring for the sacred tent, its furnishings, and the objects used for worship. They will camp around the tend, and whenever you move, they will take it down, carry it to the new camp, and set it up again. Anyone else who tries to go near it must be put to death.

The Levites are the priestly line of people consecrated to God himself and are exempt from war. The reason that they are given charge over the tent and its worship furnishings is because they are holy and the responsibility of the priesthood. The counting of the soldiers was not for God's benefit. He knows how many soldiers they have. It was for the benefit of Moses and Aaron, the leaders, so that they were prepared to go to battle. The number of men isn't truely significant because any battle that they face in route to the promised land is a battle the LORD must fight for his people.

Daily Prayer: Father, the battle is your's to fight. Instead of equipping me with armor, equip me with faith in the Living God, because you must go before me in whatever battle I face Amen.