Focal Passage: Numbers 32:20-32
A friend of mine has a great story from his childhood that is always funny to me. My friend’s father took him and his brother to a local wrestling event that featured the legendary tag team, the Rock and Roll Express. At the end of the event, my friend’s brother was in line to get an autograph of the hall of fame duo when security pulled him out of line.
My friend’s father started arguing with security and, eventually, a fight broke out, ending with my friend’s dad being thrown through and breaking a set of wooden double doors.
Professional wrestling is a scripted athletic event that portrays a fight. The performers tell a story in the ring that persuades the audience to suspend their disbelief. The wrestling that night in the local gym was choreographed, but the fight that ensued in the meet and greet line was real.
God had commanded His people to arm themselves before the battle. One term that sticks out all throughout Numbers 32:20-32 is the phrase “before the Lord.” Moses knew the victory completely depended on God, and for God to fight for them, they would need to keep their commitment to him in good faith.
God expects His people to keep their promises and commitments. Our best model for this type of commitment is Christ. Christ willingly submitted to His Father’s desires by going to the cross for us, even when he didn’t want to (Luke 22:42). Because of his commitment, we can stand blameless before God.