“We will pass over armed before the Lord into the land of Canaan, that the possession of our inheritance on this side Jordan may be ours.”
Context: Numbers 32:32 is part of a conversation that took place between Moses and the tribes of Reuben and Gad, along with half the tribe of Manasseh. These tribes had extensive livestock and saw that the land of Jazer and Gilead, which they were currently occupying on the east side of the Jordan River, were suitable for grazing. They approached Moses with a request to inherit that land rather than settling in the Promised Land of Canaan on the west side of the Jordan.
Contextual Understanding:
- The Israelites were on the brink of entering the Promised Land after wandering in the wilderness for forty years.
- The Promised Land was divided among the twelve tribes, and each tribe was allotted a specific portion of land.
- Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh requested to settle on the east side of the Jordan River because of its favorable grazing conditions.
- Moses reminded them of the consequences of not crossing over into Canaan to claim their inheritance and encouraged them to fulfill their commitment to the Lord and the rest of the tribes.
Commitment to God’s Promises:
- The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh acknowledged their responsibility and commitment to the Lord’s promise of the land of Canaan.
- Despite their desire for the land on the east side of the Jordan, they agreed to cross over armed with the other tribes to help secure the Promised Land.
- This demonstrates their understanding that their primary allegiance was to God and His covenant promises rather than their personal comfort or material wealth.
Faithfulness and Unity:
- The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh expressed their willingness to fight alongside their fellow Israelites to secure the land of Canaan.
- This decision reveals their commitment to the unity and well-being of the entire nation, recognizing that their actions would impact the overall success of possessing the land.
Lessons for us today:
- Honoring commitments: We are called to honor our commitments to God and others, even when it may require sacrifice or compromise.
- Prioritizing God’s promises: Our ultimate allegiance should be to God’s promises and His will for our lives, rather than seeking personal comfort or convenience.
- Unity and cooperation: We should value unity and cooperation within the body of Christ, recognizing that our actions can impact the success and well-being of the whole community of believers.
In conclusion, Numbers 32:32 teaches us the importance of remaining faithful to our commitments, prioritizing God’s promises over personal desires, and working together in unity to fulfill God’s purposes.
