How far is too far when we choose not to obey instructions? How far over the speed limit can we drive before we get a ticket? How long can we annoy our boss before we are fired? How often can we push God before he withdraws his hand of protection from us?
God’s plan for Israel in the book of Numbers was very clear. First, conquer all of Canaan, and second, lay claim to the vast region between the Jordan River and the Euphrates River. God didn’t have a second option. He didn’t say, “If you please,” and, “By your permission.” He said, “Go!”
Yet, in Numbers 32:1-5, the children of Reuben and the children of Gad saw a “pretty” glittering against the sunset. It pulled their eye from God, and in that moment, they set one foot over the line.
What was this “pretty” that was so alluring to Reuben and Gad? Was it something wicked and full of abasement? No, rather, it was something very good. It was a fertile land of fresh water and good grasses, just the place to graze one’s cattle. There was nothing wrong with the land Reuben and Gad were drawn to. It was a land that seemed to have the blessings of God’s supernatural hand, and it seemed no evil thing could dwell there.
So, what was the problem with Reuben and Gad’s choice? It was simple. It was not God’s choice.
God had said, “Go!”
Instead, Reuben and Gad wished to stay. In their cunning, they made a compromise, keeping one foot over the line. Their families would stay behind, and their warriors would go forward to fight the battles.
How do we keep one foot over the line? Do we continue in our lucrative job when God wishes to send us to the mission field? Do we place our private time ahead of prayer and fasting? Is there any part of our life that we have not turned over completely to him?
Sometimes the things that seem good for us are not the things God wants for us.
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