Why will you discourage the heart of the people of Israel from going over into the land that the LORD has given them? Numbers 32:7
Several tribes who wanted to raise livestock saw the land on the east side of the Jordan, and said they wanted to remain there and not cross the Jordan. Moses instantly saw the danger in the request. It was not that it was offensive to God in the request, but it could result in people being discouraged. Moses immediately sought to find their motivation in the request, and reminded them what God did when they rebelled and were faithless. He reminded them only two men came through that wilderness wandering--Caleb and Joshua. These men had a God-given duty to prepare themselves for battle to inherit the Promised Land.
Times come when battles are the fiercest. Maybe it is a brother or sister in Christ who is struggling, family division, financial woes, or unanswered prayers, but we have a God-given duty to stay in the fight when it is heavy or light. We may not be trying to win the Promised Land, but actions can discourage other people who are facing a battle we do not know. Examine motivations and encourage others whenever you can. We may be in a battle day in and day out, but we are never alone.
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