INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN
Numbers 33:50–56; 34:13–15
Numbers 33 recounts every stage of Israel’s journey from Egypt to the plains of Moab, where they are poised to enter the promised land. Moses records this itinerary under God’s command, reminding the people of where they’ve been, what God has done and what’s still required before they settle in Canaan.
This travel record is not just history; it’s sacred history. God specifically instructs Moses to record every stage, showing that God values remembrance. Each location tells a story of provision, discipline or testing.
We know from Numbers and Exodus that these were times of murmuring and rebellion, God’s discipline and God’s provision of manna, water and victories over enemies. The last leg of the journey moves them from Mount Hor to the plains of Moab opposite Jericho. The promised land is now in sight just across the Jordan River.
The Land (33:50–53)
God tells Moses His instructions for the Israelites before crossing over the Jordan River into Canaan. They were simple, precise and direct. He instructs Moses to tell the Israelites that they will have to drive out the land’s current inhabitants and destroy the idols and high places devoted to the worship of false gods.
The land will belong to them, given to them by God. They are not to leave anything that will tempt them into disobedience. To not do what He instructs will result in suffering and judgment.
The Task (54–56)
God then instructs them on how they are to divide the land. They are to distribute the land by lot. This will ensure fairness and divine sovereignty in allocation.
Every ancestral tribe will receive an inheritance. Bigger tribes will have a larger portion. Smaller tribes will have a smaller portion.
The Plan (34:13–15)
God’s promises are always specific. He doesn’t deal in vague spiritual generalities. He defines the scope of His blessings and sets the boundaries of the land He gives.
I have seen many times when vague property lines have led to disagreements and destroyed relationships. Usually, it is a result of greed. Someone wants to take a little more than they were given.
God outlines the exact boundaries of the land He gives the Israelites so they will not be tempted to take more. Moses reminds them once again how the land is to be divided up as outlined in God’s instructions. The land is to be assigned by lot, meaning the outcome rests in God’s sovereignty, not human favoritism. This preserves unity among the tribes.
Only nine and a half tribes will be living on the western side of the Jordan River, while two and a half will remain on the east side of the Jordan. Reuben, Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh had already received their inheritance east of the Jordan (Num. 32). However, they will cross the Jordan with the rest of the Israelites to assist in conquering it before returning to their inheritance.
God provides for His people in different ways, yet it is all according to His perfect plan and order. While your “inheritance” (gifts, opportunities or ministry) may look different from someone else’s, each one is part of a bigger plan.
By Darrell Nimmo
Retired Baptist pastor living in Goodlettsville, Tennessee
