What lessons on stewardship can we learn from the division of spoils in Numbers 31? Setting the Scene: Spoils in the Wilderness “From the donkeys, 30,500, and the LORD’s tribute was sixty-one.” (Numbers 31:39) Moses records each head of livestock captured from Midian and shows precisely what portion was set aside for the LORD. This single line about 30,500 donkeys and sixty-one for the sanctuary may feel like an accountant’s footnote, yet it reveals timeless truths about how God wants His people to handle resources. Observing the Count: Why Does God Record Numbers? • God is interested in the small details of everyday assets, not just temple furnishings or dramatic miracles. • Recording numbers models careful stewardship—knowing what has been received, what is retained, and what is returned to God. Stewardship Principle #1: Everything Counted Belongs to God • Psalm 24:1—“The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness.” • Haggai 2:8—“The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine.” • When the Israelites tallied livestock, they affirmed ownership: God gives, so they count in order to consecrate. Stewardship Principle #2: Generosity Is Built Into the Equation • A precise fraction (1 out of 500) went to the LORD (Numbers 31:28–30). • Proverbs 3:9—“Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • Regular, systematic giving fosters cheerful generosity (2 Corinthians 9:7) rather than sporadic, pressured offerings. Stewardship Principle #3: Accountability Protects, Never Restricts • Officers, Eleazar, and Moses jointly recorded and distributed the spoils (31:31–37). • Luke 16:10—“Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much.” • Written records prevent disputes and temptations; transparency honors God and reassures people. Stewardship Principle #4: Serving Others Blesses the Whole Community • The warriors and the rest of Israel both received portions (31:25–27). No one was left out. • Galatians 6:10—“As we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” • Thoughtful division ensures equitable care, reflecting the heart of the Giver. Stewardship Principle #5: Faithful Records Lead to Worship • After counting, commanders brought an additional freewill offering “to make atonement” (31:50). • 1 Chronicles 29:14—“Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your hand.” • When we recognize provision, gratitude naturally overflows. Bringing It Home Today • Keep clear records of income and assets. Counting is not mistrust—it is stewardship. • Establish a predetermined percentage for giving before spending starts. • Include others in financial oversight for integrity and shared joy. • Look beyond personal benefit; plan distributions that bless family, church, and the needy. • Turn every balance sheet into an occasion for praise, remembering that each number ultimately points back to the One who owns it all. |
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