When the tribes of Gad and Reuben asked for permission to inherit their portion on the Eastern bank of the
Jordan river, Moses suspected them of wanting to shirk their responsibility in conquering the land of Israel.
They told Moses, "We will build corrals for our sheep and cities for our children
and leave them alone, and we will go fight together with our brethren." Numbers 32:16
Moses accepted their request but commanded them to first build cities for their children, then take care
of their animals.
Here Moses was chastising them in a subtle way - telling them first to care for their children and then the
livestock. Although it seems like a simple thing to us, we should reflect on our own lives and see if we don't sometimes forget
this lesson.
Do you make time for your family first, or are your business and hobbies your first consideration?
Keep your priorities straight!
