Numbers 29-32
Keeping Our Obligations

As the Israelites readied to enter the land of Canaan after 40 years of wandering, Moses was paid a visit from representatives of the tribes of Reuben and Gad who sought an audience with the leaders of Israel. They asked to be allowed to settle the land east of the Jordan River since it was good for livestock, of which they had much.

At first, Moses failed to understand what they wanted. He reminded them of their forefathers who refused to go into the land and died in the wilderness as a result. The conquest of Canaan was to be a national activity. Would they shirk their responsibilities to their fellow Israelites and rest in peace as their brothers fought on the other side of the Jordan (32:6)? "For if you turn away from following Him, He will again abandon them in the wilderness, and you will destroy all this people" (32:15).

The representatives assured Moses they would be available to fight alongside the other tribes when needed. "We will not return to our homes until each of the people of Israel has gained his inheritance" (32:18). This response pleased Moses, and with that understanding, he honored their request.

It seems no accident that this story follows on the heels of chapter 30's instructions on vows. God expected men to honor their commitments when made. Chapter 30 makes an exception when a young woman makes a vow with which her father does not agree, or when a wife makes a vow of which her husband was not aware. In such cases, the father or husband could absolve the vow. Those were of course exception. The rule was adherence to what was stated.

True to their word, when Israel crossed the Jordan into enemy territory, their kinsmen to the west of the Jordan joined them and completed their vow (Joshua 22:2-5).

God would have all of His people to be honorable and committed to what they say they will do. Have you made a vow to serve God in your life? Are you fulfilling it? If not, do you think He is pleased?

But, this passage reminds us that our commitment to the LORD is broader than simply considering Him. Moses linked the failure of the ones who came out of Egypt first to God, but by failing God then to their brethren. "For if you turn away from following Him, He will again abandon them in the wilderness, and you will destroy all this people" (32:15). Service to the LORD demands we fulfill our commitments to our brethren as well. What of your commitment to the local church at Douglass Hills? When you placed membership, you were telling the church you would be there. They could count on you for encouragement and strength. If possible, do you try to make every gathering of the church? What about during gospel meetings? Are you there for you brothers and sisters? In the various works of the church (support for evangelists or needy saints, teaching the lost, cleaning the building, VBS, etc.) is it known by all you will be there to help the church as a whole in these great works? In what area could the church be stronger if only you and I would cross the river and join forces with the church?