“Them did Moses the servant of the LORD and the children of Israel smite: and Moses the servant of the LORD gave it for a possession unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh.”
Context: Before delving into the specific verse, it is essential to understand the broader context of Joshua 12. This chapter provides a summary of the victories and conquests accomplished by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses and Joshua. It lists the defeated kings and territories, highlighting God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.
Historical Background: After the exodus from Egypt and forty years of wandering in the wilderness, the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, entered the Promised Land to possess it. The land was divided among the twelve tribes of Israel, and this division is being recounted in Joshua 12.
Moses, the Servant of the Lord: The verse identifies Moses as the servant of the LORD, emphasizing his role as a faithful leader appointed by God to guide the Israelites. Moses played a significant part in leading the people out of slavery in Egypt and receiving the Law from God. Although Moses had passed away by the time of the division of the conquered land, his influence and obedience to God’s commands were still remembered.
The Conquest of the Reubenites, Gadites, and the Half Tribe of Manasseh: In this verse, it is mentioned that Moses, as the servant of the LORD, gave a portion of the conquered land to the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. This allocation occurred on the eastern side of the Jordan River, just outside the Promised Land. These tribes had requested permission to settle in that region due to its suitability for their large herds of livestock.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Faithfulness of God’s Servant: The verse underscores the faithfulness of Moses as the servant of the LORD. Moses demonstrated obedience and leadership throughout his life, and his actions paved the way for the fulfillment of God’s promises.
- God’s Provision: The distribution of land to the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh demonstrates God’s faithfulness in providing for the specific needs and requests of His people. He knows our circumstances and provides accordingly.
- Unity and Cooperation: The division of the land among the tribes signifies the importance of unity and cooperation among God’s people. Each tribe had a specific portion assigned to them, and they were expected to work together to possess and cultivate their territories.
- God’s Sovereignty: The conquest of the Promised Land was not solely due to human strength or military strategy. The victories and land allocation were a result of God’s sovereignty and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. It reminds us that God is the one who fights on our behalf and grants us victory.
Overall, Joshua 12:6 showcases the faithfulness of Moses, the servant of the LORD, and the fulfillment of God’s promises to the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. It teaches us important lessons about faithfulness, provision, unity, and God’s sovereignty in our lives.
