Deuteronomy 3

Devotional:
“At that time I gave this command to the tribes that would live east of the Jordan: ‘Although the Lord your God has given you this land as your property, all your fighting men must cross the Jordan ahead of your Israelite relatives, armed and ready to assist them. When the Lord has given security to the rest of the Israelites, as he has to you, and when they occupy the land the Lord your God is giving them across the Jordan River, then you may all return here to the land I have given you.’ (Deuteronomy 3:18, 20)

The tribes of Reuben and Gad and part of the tribe of Manasseh desired to settle in the land that had been acquired from the two Amorite Kings (Sihon, Og) rather than in the land of Canaan, as this land was good for their large amount of livestock (see Numbers 32). They are allowed to do so under the condition that they continue to fight so that the other tribes could acquire the territory in which they would settle. This displays the unity of God’s people. Each tribe was not just looking out for itself but sought to help the other tribes, even if there was no benefit to them. They provide a good example for God’s people, as we are called to help each other not just when it is convenient, easy, or beneficial for us.

Pray it:
Father, help me to be like Jesus who did not look out for his own interests but rather the interests of others. Make me aware of how I can help carry the burdens of others and to serve them when it is of no direct benefit to me. Amen.

Share it:
Who is someone you can share a verse or thought from this passage with?