Numbers 32:16-42
In proposing to help their brethren in conquering the land of Canaan, the sons of Reuben and Gad show zeal, courage and even concern for something which profited others and not themselves. All these virtues do not replace in the LORD’S eyes love for Himself and for the land that He has given. The warriors of the two tribes will know the land of promise. They will cross the Jordan to help their brethren. But their wives and their little children will not go in. By their mistake, these latter will never enjoy the LORD’S promise (Numbers 14:31). We remember that formerly Pharaoh tried to prevent the little children from leaving Egypt (Exodus 10:10-11). Now it is their own parents who prevent their arrival in Canaan. "Suffer the little children to come unto me", instructs the Lord Jesus, "and forbid them not" (Mark 10:14). There exist, alas! more than one means of hindering a child from coming to Jesus!
In the rich pastures of Gilead, the flocks and herds are undoubtedly going to thrive. For the families, on the other hand, it will be decadence, as the later history of these tribes well shows. Dear friends, which is the more important? Prosperity in our business or in our souls? They do not always go together.