Day 49
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| Solders that defeated the Midianites |
Observation
Moses’ final acts of leadership before his death involve conquest and consolidation. Midian, which had led Israel into idolatry, is judged as 12,000 crack Israelite troops annihilate this powerful people and collect a wealth of spoils. Next, the tribes of Reuben and Gad ask to settle on the east side of the Jordan. Moses grants their request on the condition that they help the remaining ten tribes complete the conquest of the Promised Land first. The section closes with a review of the geographic movement during the forty years of wandering.
Application
If you have ever watched a quiz show where contestants are faced with the difficult choice of (1) keeping what they have already won, or (2) risking it all on winning an even bigger prize, then you’ll understand the situation in today’s section.
With the lands of Jazer and Gilead conquered, Reuben and Gad came to Moses wanting to settle there. They were willing to help conquer the rest of the land, but they liked what they saw east of the Jordan and weren’t willing to take a chance on what they hadn’t seen. Though this might at first seem prudent on their part, it was contrary to God’s intention for his people. He had already promised the entire nation victory over the Canaanites if they would just trust him. By settling for God’s second best, Reuben and Gad set the stage for future strife.
Where is God asking you to step out by faith into unknown territory? The temptation will be there to settle for the security of the status quo—and miss possible blessings! Instead of being controlled by a fear of the unknown, let your actions be guided by a confidence of the Known—the God of Israel who never slumbers or sleeps (Psalm 121: 4). He’s waiting to talk to you right now!
With the lands of Jazer and Gilead conquered, Reuben and Gad came to Moses wanting to settle there. They were willing to help conquer the rest of the land, but they liked what they saw east of the Jordan and weren’t willing to take a chance on what they hadn’t seen. Though this might at first seem prudent on their part, it was contrary to God’s intention for his people. He had already promised the entire nation victory over the Canaanites if they would just trust him. By settling for God’s second best, Reuben and Gad set the stage for future strife.
Where is God asking you to step out by faith into unknown territory? The temptation will be there to settle for the security of the status quo—and miss possible blessings! Instead of being controlled by a fear of the unknown, let your actions be guided by a confidence of the Known—the God of Israel who never slumbers or sleeps (Psalm 121: 4). He’s waiting to talk to you right now!
Prayer
Dear God, our Father of heaven and of earth, we want that strong faith to step out on your word and not fear the unknown and know that you are the Known therefore we will have no fear! Thank you Lord in Jesus name, amen!
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| Moses the Traveler at the end of his Leadership |
© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019
