Year of the Bible: Part Four of Twelve Sample

Courage or Convenience?

Just before the people crossed the Jordan into the promised land, the leaders of the tribes of Reuben and Gad approached Moses with a request. They had large livestock numbers, and the land east of the Jordan was lush and well suited for grazing, so they asked Moses to make it their inheritance instead of getting lands on the other side of the Jordan. Moses was not impressed and questioned the courage of these tribes. He wondered if the tribes indeed preferred the land east of the Jordan or if they were looking for a way out of the fight that lay ahead.

Dr. Evans draws a parallel to our Christian lives and encourages us that we are all in this together, and we have to be careful not to cause discouragement in other Christians. He says, "a discouraged Christian is an unfruitful Christian." Moses similarly challenged the Reubenites and Gadites to have their brother's backs as they fought to conquer Canaan!

The tribes committed to joining the fight in the land of Canaan, and Moses warned them strictly of the consequences of failing to follow through! They assured Moses that they would not come back home until their brothers had taken possession of their land.

In response to their commitment, Moses gave them their inheritance, told them to build pens for their animals and fortified cities for their dependents, and then added the half-tribe of Manasseh to the land.

This story is fascinating because it challenges us to think through what we are proposing to ensure we consider those who would be affected by our decisions. Most importantly, however, it points us to Jesus and what He would do for us! Jesus willingly left His inheritance in heaven to go across and fight in the land of sin so that we could be free. He waged battle for us on the cross so we could receive our inheritance in Him.

Question to Ponder: Are there areas where God asks you to fight for your brothers or sisters in Christ?

Prayer Focus: Ask God to show you how you can bless someone else today. Ask Him to give you the courage and provision to encourage someone in your sphere of influence.