In Numbers 32:1-6, we read about the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh making a request of Moses. They had large herds and flocks, and when they surveyed the territory east of the Jordan River, they recognized that the land was particularly well suited to their needs. They approached Moses and asked permission to settle there rather than receive their inheritance on the other side of the Jordan.
Moses initially questioned their request. He reminded them that their brothers were preparing to enter the Promised Land and face the battles necessary to possess it. Would these tribes settle comfortably in their inheritance while the remainder of Israel went forward to fight? Would their decision discourage the hearts of their brethren?
The issue was not simply where they wanted to live, but whether they were willing to share in the responsibilities of God’s people.
Moses eventually agreed to their request on one condition: their fighting men must cross the Jordan, arm themselves for battle, and help their brethren secure their inheritance. They agreed, and their families and possessions could remain east of the Jordan while their warriors participated in the conquest (Numbers 32:16-27).
There is an important spiritual lesson here.
OUR BLESSINGS MUST NOT MAKE US SELFISH.
The tribes saw something desirable and wanted to possess it. There was nothing inherently wrong with recognizing the advantages of the land. The danger was that their personal prosperity might become more important than the welfare of their brethren. Christianity must never become a pursuit of personal comfort at the expense of others.
2OUR RESPONSIBILITIES EXTEND BEYOND OUR OWN INHERITANCE.
They could not enjoy their possessions while ignoring the battles of their brothers. Likewise, we cannot be concerned only with our own spiritual welfare. Galatians 6:2 teaches us to bear one another’s burdens.
WE MUST FINISH THE WORK TOGETHER.
God’s people were entering their inheritance as a nation. Their victories required cooperation, commitment, and shared sacrifice. The church is likewise a body in which every member has a responsibility toward the others.
It is possible to become so satisfied with what God has given us that we forget what He still expects us to do. Let us never become so comfortable on our side of the Jordan that we forget our brethren are still fighting battles on the other side.
BDD
