Focus Chapters:

• Numbers 32-33

Standout Verse(s):

Numbers 32:4-7, 16-19 NLT

The Lord has conquered this whole area for the community of Israel, and it is ideally suited for all our livestock. If we have found favor with you, please let us have this land as our property instead of giving us land across the Jordan River.”

“Do you intend to stay here while your brothers go across and do all the fighting?” Moses asked the men of Gad and Reuben. “Why do you want to discourage the rest of the people of Israel from going across to the land the Lord has given them?

But they approached Moses and said, “We simply want to build pens for our livestock and fortified towns for our wives and children. Then we will arm ourselves and lead our fellow Israelites into battle until we have brought them safely to their land. Meanwhile, our families will stay in the fortified towns we build here, so they will be safe from any attacks by the local people. We will not return to our homes until all the people of Israel have received their portions of land. But we do not claim any of the land on the other side of the Jordan. We would rather live here on the east side and accept this as our grant of land.”

Observation (s):

1. The Reubenites and Gadites made their request but the intent behind their request was not communicated clearly.
   

   The Lord has conquered this whole area for the community of Israel, and it is ideally suited for all our livestock. If we have found favor with you, please let us have this land as our property instead of giving us land across the Jordan River.”

2. Moses recognized that many persons could become discouraged if the request of the Reubenites and Gadites was granted and they separated from the group before the Israelites had fully crossed over into Canaan. This could be perceived as some members of the team not having faith in the team’s ability to conquer the land.
   

   “Do you intend to stay here while your brothers go across and do all the fighting?” Moses asked the men of Gad and Reuben. “Why do you want to discourage the rest of the people of Israel from going across to the land the Lord has given them?

3. The Ruebenites and Gadites chose to clarify the miscommunication, ensuring everyone understood their intent.
   

   But they approached Moses and said, “We simply want to build pens for our livestock and fortified towns for our wives and children. Then we will arm ourselves and lead our fellow Israelites into battle until we have brought them safely to their land. Meanwhile, our families will stay in the fortified towns we build here, so they will be safe from any attacks by the local people. We will not return to our homes until all the people of Israel have received their portions of land. But we do not claim any of the land on the other side of the Jordan. We would rather live here on the east side and accept this as our grant of land.”

    

Application:

The Reubenites and Gadites had a desire to ensure their families and properties were secured and safe before going off to fight with the rest of their country men, on their campaign to conquer Canaan. This prompted their request to Moses and the elders. However, their intent was not clear and so, Moses chastised the men, pinpointing an important lesson: “Our actions, unconscious or otherwise, has the ability to discourage or motivate others.” As such, we should be careful that our good intent is not misconstrued to be evil and thus, cause others to lose their way or give up. Like the men of Gad and Reuben, we should listen and then clarify the matter, making our position and intent crystal clear.

As my pastor used to say: “Do not let your good be evilly spoken of.”

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May the Peace of God go with you!

XOXO
Chañel

Bible Godly Lessons actions Bible Challenge discouragement Gadites Israelites Moses motivation Reubenites