What does Numbers 31:44 teach about God's sovereignty over nations and peoples? Text in Context Numbers 31 records the divinely commanded campaign against Midian. After the victory, the LORD calls for a precise inventory and distribution of the spoils. Verse 44 notes one line of that ledger: “30,500 donkeys;” What the Numbers Tell Us • God’s sovereignty reaches tangible realities—herds, possessions, even individual animals. • The livestock of a defeated nation is His to reassign; no asset lies outside His authority (vv. 28-47). • The verse’s numerical precision showcases a God who governs details; nothing escapes His count (cf. Matthew 10:29-30). Sovereignty in the Wider Story • Midian’s downfall answers their earlier seduction of Israel (Numbers 25); the LORD raises up and brings down peoples to uphold His holiness. • By transferring Midian’s wealth to Israel, God displays ownership of all resources (Psalm 24:1). • Israel, too, must tithe from these spoils (vv. 28-30, 42-47), acknowledging that even received blessings remain under His rule. Other Scriptures Confirming the Point • Job 12:23 — “He makes nations great, and destroys them; He enlarges nations, and disperses them.” • Daniel 2:21 — “He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them.” • Acts 17:26 — God “determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.” • Psalm 47:8 — “God reigns over the nations; God is seated on His holy throne.” Takeaway for Believers • Confidence: The One who counts donkeys directs world affairs—and the details of our lives. • Humility: National strength and personal success stand or fall at His decree. • Stewardship: All possessions come from Him; like Israel, we honour the LORD with what He entrusts to us. |
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