https://esv.literalword.com/?q=Numbers+32
Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Friday, 18 April 2025:
Numbers 32:6, 7, 9, 23 — But Moses said to the people of Gad and to the people of Reuben, “Shall your brothers go to the war while you sit here? Why will you discourage the heart of the people of Israel from going over into the land that the Lord has given them? … For when they went up to the Valley of Eshcol and saw the land, they discouraged the heart of the people of Israel from going into the land that the Lord had given them…. But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the Lord, and be sure your sin will find you out.”
Numbers 32 is a rich chapter that speaks directly to themes of self-interest vs. collective responsibility, the power of influence, and the importance of finishing what we start—all incredibly relevant for Christian living. Let’s break it down into the key elements you asked about:
“Shall your brothers go to war while you sit here?” Moses confronts the Reubenites and Gadites for wanting to settle east of the Jordan instead of continuing into battle with the rest of Israel. “Why do you discourage the Israelites from going over into the land the Lord has given them?” Moses connects their behavior to the discouragement caused by the spies in Numbers 13–14, which led to 40 years of wandering. “But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the Lord; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.” A powerful warning about personal responsibility and integrity.
Your decisions don’t just affect you—they ripple outward. The desire of two tribes to settle early threatened the morale and unity of the whole nation. Discouragement can spread like wildfire when others perceive that some are choosing comfort over commitment. Even if you’ve “got yours,” you’re still called to support others until the mission is complete. Reuben and Gad had to step up and fight alongside the others before enjoying their own inheritance.
Settling prematurely is tempting, especially when comfort is within reach. But Moses reminds them that stopping short of the mission dishonors God and harms others. The promised land was still ahead; settling early risked not only discouragement but disobedience. Just because a decision looks good for you doesn’t mean it’s right. We’re called to consider how our actions impact the broader community of faith.
Be a finisher, not just a starter, not just for your sake but for the encouragement, support, and faith of others.
“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 18 April 2025: Just like the tribes of Reuben and Gad had to support their fellow Israelites until the mission was complete, we are called to stand with others who are still in battle—spiritually, emotionally, financially, or otherwise. Text, call, or meet with someone you know is going through a tough season. Let them know: “I see you. I’m with you. I haven’t settled down while you’re still fighting.” Offer something tangible: a prayer, a meal, a ride, an encouraging Scripture (maybe even Numbers 32:6 or 32:23).
Defenders Bible Reading Plan 