After seven years - probably the length of the war to occupy Canaan - the tribes who had gone to help their brothers settle on the western side of the Jordan, leaving their families on the eastern side, returned to their homes with many riches. They were given the land of Sihon, king of Heshbon, and Og, king of Bashan, who wouldn't let the people pass through their land and fought against Israel, but were defeated (Numbers 21.33-35)!

 Moses divided up the land conquered by the wickedness of those kings, for the patriarch had written to them asking permission to pass through their territory, warning them that he would pay for the expenses caused by the people or the cattle on their crops, and would even reimburse them for the water to be consumed by the Jews. The land was given to the tribes of Reuben, Gad and half the tribe of Manasseh. Those who are not helpful to others suffer the consequences of their actions. They tried to destroy God's people, but they were destroyed!

At one point, everything seemed fine, at least in Joshua's eyes. Then he told the two and a half tribes, who had gone to help their brothers, that it was time to return to their tents, to their families, and to enjoy life in the new land. A small group had remained in the camp to look after the women, the children, and the flocks, while other men battled to win their piece. They were serving God!

On the human side, the Israelites were reckless. If those who stayed to protect their families had to face an enemy attack, what would it have been like? They wouldn't have been able to cope! But the Lord protects those who trust in Him. It was the Most High's battle, and He would not let the adversary touch them. In fact, the Israelites didn't act irrationally, because they were counting on their Protector. Then the men returned from the war, and all was well!

  We need to learn from them. If God sends us to battle for evangelization in nations opposed to Christianity, we should go and do the work as He teaches. There's nothing to be afraid of, even leaving the family alone. Do we really believe in the Lord? Does our faith resemble theirs, or can we not trust the promises and declarations of the Most High? What is the reason for not believing in the One who has always confirmed His Word?

Countless battles were fought to drive the people out of Canaan, and then, having fulfilled the commandment, Joshua released them, instructing them to return with the wealth they had earned honestly, according to the law of spoil in force at the time. There was not the slightest desire on the part of the commander to abandon everything they had won there. They were the reward and wages earned after risking their lives in the face of real danger.

Moses instructed them to share the spoils of their enemies with their brothers. Certainly, those who were left to protect those who remained should also receive equally. After all, those who took care of the baggage should be given the same as those who fought at the front until victory (1 Samuel 30.24).

           In Christ, with love,

           R. R. Soares