In Numbers 32 What Does The Request Of Reuben And Gad Reveal About Their Priorities And Faith In Gods Promises?
The Request of Reuben and Gad: Priorities and Faith in God’s Promises (Numbers 32)
The story of Reuben and Gad’s request in Numbers 32 offers a fascinating glimpse into the hearts of two of Israel’s tribes as they stand on the threshold of the Promised Land. Their decision to settle east of the Jordan River, rather than cross over with the rest of Israel, invites us to consider deep questions about priorities, faith, and the dangers of half-hearted obedience.
The Context: Israel on the Brink of Promise
After decades of wandering, the Israelites are finally poised to enter Canaan. But before the crossing, the tribes of Reuben and Gad notice that the land of Jazer and Gilead is ideal for their large herds. They approach Moses with a bold request:
And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben came and spake unto Moses, and to Eleazar the priest, and unto the princes of the congregation, saying, The land which Jehovah smote before the congregation of Israel, is a land for cattle; and thy servants have cattle. - Numbers 32:2 ASV
Their desire is clear: “If we have found favor in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession; bring us not over the Jordan.” (Numbers 32:5 ASV)
Priorities Revealed: Material Comfort Over God’s Promise?
This request raises immediate questions about their priorities. The land east of the Jordan is not the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:7 ASV). Instead, Reuben and Gad are motivated by the suitability of the land for their cattle—an economic and material consideration.
- Material Focus: Their first concern is for their livestock, not God’s word or the inheritance God had set aside for them. This can be seen as prioritizing present comfort over future blessing.
- Short-Term Security: By choosing land already subdued, they avoid the uncertainty and battles that await in Canaan.
Moses immediately challenges their motives, reminding them of the previous generation’s unbelief and reluctance to enter the land, which resulted in God’s judgment (Numbers 32:6–15 ASV).
Faith in God’s Promises: A Mixed Picture
The response of Reuben and Gad reveals a complex faith:
- Lack of Full Trust: By settling outside the Promised Land, they demonstrate a lack of full confidence in God’s provision and plan. God had promised Canaan (Genesis 17:8 ASV), but they are willing to settle for less.
- Partial Obedience: Their willingness to help fight for their brothers shows some faithfulness (Numbers 32:17 ASV), but their hearts are set on returning to their chosen land. Partial obedience is still disobedience in God’s eyes (1 Samuel 15:22 ASV).
And Moses said unto them, If ye will do this thing, if ye will arm yourselves to go before Jehovah to the war, ... then afterward ye shall return, and be guiltless toward Jehovah, and toward Israel; and this land shall be unto you for a possession before Jehovah. - Numbers 32:20-22 ASV
Moses’s conditional acceptance shows God’s grace, but also a warning: “But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against Jehovah; and be sure your sin will find you out.” (Numbers 32:23 ASV)
Implications for Today: Lessons in Faith and Obedience
The story challenges believers to evaluate their own priorities and trust in God’s promises. Are we tempted to settle for less than God’s best because it seems easier or more comfortable? Do we allow material concerns to outweigh spiritual inheritance?
- Jesus’ Warning: “For where thy treasure is, there will thy heart be also.” (Matthew 6:21 ASV)
- Faith in God’s Promises: We are called to a full trust in God’s plan, even when it requires risk and sacrifice. Faith means stepping into the unknown, trusting God’s Word above our circumstances (Hebrews 11:8 ASV).
Conclusion
Reuben and Gad’s story is a cautionary tale about the danger of misplaced priorities and half-hearted faith. While God showed mercy and allowed them to settle east of the Jordan, their choice ultimately distanced them from the heart of God’s promise. As followers of Christ, we are called to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that every promise is secure in Christ (Matthew 6:33 ASV).