“And the asses were thirty thousand and five hundred; of which the LORD’S tribute was threescore and one.”
Context: Numbers 31 records the events that took place after the Israelites defeated the Midianites in battle. God commanded Moses to take vengeance on the Midianites for seducing the Israelites into idolatry and sexual immorality. The Israelites were successful in their conquest, and they brought back plunder, including livestock and other valuable possessions.
Explanation and Analysis:
In Numbers 31:39, the focus is on the number of donkeys (asses) that the Israelites obtained as part of the spoils of war. The verse states that they had thirty thousand five hundred donkeys. This significant number highlights the abundance of livestock and wealth the Israelites gained from their victory over the Midianites.
Furthermore, the verse mentions that the Lord’s tribute from the donkeys was sixty-one. The term “tribute” refers to a portion or tribute offering that was to be given to the Lord. This suggests that the Israelites were to dedicate a specific portion of the donkeys to the service of God.
The mention of the Lord’s tribute in this context reminds the Israelites that even in times of victory and abundance, they were still required to honor God and give Him their offerings. It serves as a reminder of their covenant relationship with God and their responsibility to worship and serve Him faithfully.
Application:
- Gratitude and Acknowledgment: Like the Israelites, we should recognize that all our victories and blessings come from God. We should express gratitude to Him for His provision and acknowledge His role in our lives.
- Faithful Stewardship: Just as the Israelites were required to give a portion of their spoils as a tribute to God, we should also practice faithful stewardship over our resources. We can dedicate a portion of our income or possessions to support God’s work, help the less fortunate, and contribute to the spread of the gospel.
- Honoring God in Abundance: When we experience abundance or success, it is crucial to remember that God deserves our worship and devotion. We should not allow material possessions or worldly achievements to distract us from our commitment to God. Instead, we must prioritize Him in every aspect of our lives.
- Covenant Faithfulness: The verse reminds us of the covenant relationship between God and His people. As believers, we are part of the new covenant through Jesus Christ. We should strive to remain faithful to God’s commandments, walk in obedience, and live lives that honor Him.
Remember, this verse is just a small part of the larger context of Numbers 31. To gain a deeper understanding, it’s beneficial to read the entire chapter and explore the surrounding passages.
