Numbers 32:16-27 – Are we trustworthy?

Fortunately, this new generation of Israelites, including the Reubenites and the Gadites, was unlike the previous generation. Though they had a mind of their own, they were able to see where Moses was coming from. So they gave him a fresh proposal.  They assured Moses that they would build enclosures and dwelling places on this side of Jordan to house their livestock and families, respectively. Then they would send their able men to go with their brethren from the other tribes into the promised land to help them possess it. Only after the land was taken and allotted to them would they return to their family on this side of Jordan. They would not take a share of the land since they already had been allotted land in the Transjordan areas.

It is important to note that the Reubenites and Gadites did not respond to Moses resentfully. They had a change of heart and attitude and were sincere about their proposal. Verse 17 shows that they were eager to lead the Israelites in the advance to possess the land. They even promised to be there in the battle with them till their brethren had inherited the land.  Gallantly, they undertook to provide the lead till the task of taking the land had been done and their brethren had received their inheritance. They had literally committed themselves to a life war so long as their brethren had not received their land.

This was probably the reason that Moses could accept their proposal. Their commitment was an expression of faith. They were pledging their lives to fight with the Israelites for life. Moses’ response to them shows that he wanted some assurance from them that they would keep their words. And that they would only return to the families in the Transjordan free from obligation when their brethren had inherited their share of the promised land.

This was needful. Why? For it is one thing to make promises and quite another to follow through with the promises made. The same is for us. We can be stirred by a challenging sermon and respond to the altar call. But it would all mean nothing if it is not followed through with committed actions. Hence it is important for us to know that God is not interested in our lip service. We must not make a promise and not keep it. While it is wonderful to respond to the Lord after hearing from Him, the more important part, however, is to carry through with what we have committed to do. We must be people who will walk the talk. Let us be known for our trustworthiness. Be sure to make promises only when we mean it, and then to truthfully keep it!