Ella 
Read the Daily Bible Verse – Numbers 32:36 To Strengthen Your Spiritual Journey.
Numbers 32:36 is a verse found in a chapter filled with promises, agreements, and obedience. It highlights the physical locations that were built and inhabited by the descendants of Reuben, one of the tribes of Israel. Although this verse is brief, it carries meaningful implications about responsibility, settlement, and fulfilling one’s calling under God.
In this article, we will explore the context, meaning, and real-life application of this verse to draw practical wisdom for our Christian walk today.
The Context of Numbers 32:36 KJV
Background of the Book of Numbers
The Book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible. It records the journey of the Israelites from Mount Sinai to the borders of the Promised Land. It is a book about preparation, rebellion, correction, and divine faithfulness.
The Israelites had wandered in the wilderness for 40 years because of their earlier disobedience and unbelief. But now they stood on the edge of Canaan, ready to enter and take the land God had promised to them.
The Request of the Tribes of Reuben and Gad
In Numbers 32, the tribes of Reuben and Gad approached Moses with a special request. They had a large number of livestock and saw that the land on the east side of the Jordan River was suitable for their animals. This area included regions like Jazer and Gilead.
They asked Moses if they could settle there instead of crossing into Canaan with the rest of the tribes. At first, Moses was concerned that this request would discourage the rest of Israel from taking possession of the Promised Land.
However, the tribes clarified that they would still help the other Israelites fight and conquer Canaan. Only after the conquest would they return to settle their own families on the east side.
Moses agreed under one condition: that they fulfill their promise to go into battle with Israel. If they failed, they would be guilty of sin.
Fulfillment of the Agreement
After the agreement was reached, Moses assigned the land to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These tribes then began to build cities and settle in them. Numbers 32:36 is part of the record of those settlements.
Numbers 32:36 (KJV)
Let’s read the verse from the King James Version:
“And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan, fenced cities: and folds for sheep.” — Numbers 32:36 (KJV)
This verse lists two cities: Bethnimrah and Bethharan. It also tells us that these cities were fortified and included sheepfolds. Even though this verse is short, it reflects the fulfillment of a promise and wise preparation for the future.
Numbers 32:36 Meaning
Now, let’s break down this verse to understand its deeper meaning and significance.
“And Bethnimrah, and Bethharan”
These are the names of two cities built or rebuilt by the tribe of Reuben. Naming the cities serves as a historical record. It shows that these places became significant centers for the tribe.
Bethnimrah means “house of leopard” or “house of pure water.” Bethharan means “house of the joyful song” or “mountain house.” These names may reflect the beauty, purpose, or history of these places.
Mentioning these cities is also important because it confirms that the tribe of Reuben took their inheritance seriously. They did not just receive land—they developed it.
“Fenced cities”
This phrase tells us that the cities were fortified. They were protected by walls or barriers, indicating that the tribe of Reuben was preparing for defense. It shows a sense of responsibility and foresight.
God gave them the land, but they still needed to protect and steward it. This is a key principle: divine provision does not cancel human responsibility.
The act of building fenced cities shows the tribe’s obedience and faith. They were investing in the land God had given them.
“And folds for sheep”
This detail tells us that the tribe also cared for their livestock. Since they had asked for the land because of their cattle, they followed through by creating sheepfolds—enclosures to protect and shelter their animals.
This reflects diligence and wise stewardship. They did not waste their resources or neglect their duties. Instead, they provided for their animals, which were essential to their livelihood.
Again, this shows they were faithful in following through on their commitments.
Numbers 32:36 Application in Life
Although Numbers 32:36 may seem like a simple record of cities and sheepfolds, it actually teaches several valuable life lessons for believers today.
1. Fulfill Your Commitments
The tribe of Reuben made a promise to help their fellow Israelites fight for the Promised Land. After the agreement, they began to settle their inheritance. This verse shows that they were acting responsibly and honoring their commitment.
As Christians, we are also called to keep our promises. When we make a commitment—especially one involving others—we should follow through.
Jesus said in Matthew 5:37, “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.”
Let us be trustworthy in word and action.
2. Be a Good Steward of God’s Gifts
God gave the Reubenites land, and they did not waste it. They built cities, protected them, and created spaces for their animals.
In the same way, we are called to be good stewards of the blessings God has given us. Whether it’s our homes, jobs, families, talents, or finances, we must use them wisely and for God’s glory.
1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”
Let’s honor God by caring for what He has entrusted to us.
3. Prepare Wisely for the Future
Building fenced cities and sheepfolds required planning. The Reubenites did not wait for trouble to come. They prepared ahead of time.
This teaches us the value of wise preparation. While we trust God for protection and provision, He also expects us to act with wisdom.
Proverbs 21:5 says, “The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.”
Whether it’s in ministry, family life, or personal growth, it’s good to be prayerful and proactive.
4. Invest in Your Community
The tribe of Reuben didn’t just build houses for themselves—they built cities. This shows a collective mindset. They were thinking about their families, neighbors, and future generations.
As believers, we’re not called to live in isolation. We are called to build up one another and invest in our churches and communities.
Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to “consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.”
Let’s build strong spiritual communities for the glory of God.
5. Balance Your Spiritual and Practical Life
This verse combines the spiritual fulfillment of God’s promise with the practical work of building and caring for animals. The Reubenites were not overly spiritual to the point of neglecting physical needs. Nor were they so focused on material things that they forgot God’s role.
This teaches balance. God calls us to be both faithful and practical. We are to pray and work, believe and build.
James 2:17 says, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”
Let us walk in faith and action.
Conclusion
Numbers 32:36 may seem like a simple verse listing two cities and some sheep pens, but it carries great meaning when we look deeper. It reminds us that:
- God honors faithfulness
- We must fulfill our promises
- Stewardship and preparation are signs of obedience
- Building community is important
- Balance between faith and action is essential
The tribe of Reuben received their inheritance, and they took responsibility for it. They built, they prepared, and they followed through on their commitment.
As modern believers, we are also inheritors—of salvation, of spiritual gifts, and of God’s calling. May we follow the example of the Reubenites by being diligent, faithful, and wise in all we do.
Let this simple verse remind you: every part of God’s Word has value. Even a verse about cities and sheepfolds can teach us how to live for God today.
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