Numbers 32: Prioritizing Ones Self over God Commands

Introduction: Numbers 32 is a chapter in the Bible that portrays the Israelites’ journey towards the Promised Land and how some tribes prioritized their considerations over God’s specific commands. This deep dive focuses on the faith lessons we can glean from the narrative and objections raised by Moses.

I. The Recognition of Affluence: Numbers 32:1-5
The chapter begins with the tribes of Reuben and Gad, noticing the rich lands of Jazer and Gilead. They saw these lands as perfect for their large livestock herds, which led them to request Moses to let them settle there (Numbers 32:1-5). This action is reminiscent of Lot choosing the fertile plains of Jordan over Abram in Genesis 13:10-12, prioritizing material wealth over God’s guidance. Here, the test of faith begins as the tribes seem more focused on their earthly interests rather than the divine promise made by God.

II. The Response of Moses: Numbers 32:6-15
Moses responds by reminding the tribes of their ancestors’ unfaithfulness when they discouraged the Israelites from entering the Promised Land (Numbers 14:1-4). Like the negative influence of the 10 spies in Numbers 13:31-33, their decision could demoralize and discourage the entire community. Moses warned them about the possibility of repeating the adverse sins of their forefathers, propagating a lack of faith and causing God’s anger to be kindled against His people once again (Numbers 32:8-13).

III. The Reconciliation and Compromise: Numbers 32:16-27
The tribes of Reuben and Gad, realizing their error, propose a solution. They offer to build sheepfolds for their livestock and cities for their children in Gilead, promising to join the rest of Israel in conquering the Promised Land before settling on the east side of Jordan (Numbers 32:16-19). This commitment aligns with Joshua’s charge in Joshua 1:14-15, where he asks the Eastern tribes to fight for the Lord until every one of their brothers possesses their inheritance.

IV. The Result and Conclusion: Numbers 32:28-42
Moses agrees to their proposal with a stern warning that if they fail to fulfill their promise, their sin would find them out (Numbers 32:23), echoing Proverbs 28:13’s teaching about sin’s consequences. Eventually, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh built strong cities and livestock pens as they promised (Numbers 32:34-42), demonstrating faith through works as illustrated in James 2:17-18.

Conclusion: Numbers 32 serves as a profound study of faith, highlighting the dangers of prioritizing worldly considerations over God’s promises, the importance of collective responsibility, and the blessings of obedience. It teaches us to keep our faith focused on God’s promises, to consider the impact of our actions on our community’s faith, and to fulfill our commitments to God, knowing fully well that our actions demonstrate our faith. Through this, we learn that faith is not a passive attribute but an active commitment to God’s Word, as seen in Hebrews 11:1. Therefore, let’s strive to possess such faith that does not waver in the face of worldly temptations, but steadfastly looks up to God and His promises.