How can we ensure our actions align with God's will, as in Numbers 32:22?

Setting the Scene

Numbers 32 records how the tribes of Reuben and Gad asked to settle east of the Jordan. Moses consented on one condition: they must first cross the river and fight until Canaan was fully conquered. Verse 22 sums up the agreement:

“then when the land is subdued before the LORD, afterward you may return and be free of your obligation to the LORD and to Israel. And this land will belong to you as a possession before the LORD.” (Numbers 32:22)

Lesson Drawn from Numbers 32:22

• God calls for complete obedience, not partial participation.

• Obedience is “before the LORD,” meaning lived openly in His presence.

• Faithfulness to God results in freedom and blessing once the task is finished.

• Our commitments to others (Israel) are inseparable from our commitments to God.

Principles for Aligning Our Actions with God’s Will

1. Submit plans before the Lord

Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

– Bring every intention to Him in prayer and Scripture before acting.

2. Check motives and goals

Colossians 3:17: “Whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus…”

– Ask whether the aim is God’s glory rather than personal comfort or gain.

3. Embrace full obedience

John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

– Follow through until the assignment is finished, just as the two tribes fought until the land was subdued.

4. Stay accountable to God and people

Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to spur one another on to love and good works.

– Share plans with trusted believers who will lovingly ask how obedience is progressing.

5. Rely on God’s presence, not mere self-effort

Exodus 33:15: “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here.”

– Pray for and expect the Spirit’s guidance and strength at every step.

6. Evaluate outcomes by Scripture

Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

– Regularly compare results and attitudes to the clear teaching of the Word.

Daily Practices that Keep Us Aligned

• Daily Bible intake: read, study, memorize, and meditate.

• Consistent prayer: ask for clarity, confess sin quickly, give thanks.

• Fellowship: worship and serve alongside a local church body.

• Periodic fasting: sharpen spiritual sensitivity.

• Journaling: record God’s guidance and your responses to keep track of obedience.

Encouragement from Other Passages

James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”

Romans 12:2: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.”

Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.”

Conclusion

Like Reuben and Gad, believers today ensure their actions align with God’s will by submitting every plan to Him, pursuing wholehearted obedience, staying accountable to His people, and depending on His empowering presence. Freedom and blessing follow faithfulness.