S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Each of the twelve sons of Israel received a blessing from his father, Jacob, just before Jacob's death. The twelve sons were the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel, and the blessing contai...

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July 01 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What should we learn from the tribe of Reuben?

The tribe of Reuben teaches that privilege (firstborn status) requires purity, and moral compromise can permanently damage influence, leading to "instability". Reuben's life highlights that failing to control passions can cause one to "not excel" and that choosing temporary comfort (settling outside Canaan) over divine calling limits spiritual potential, though God's grace allows for restoration.

Lessons from the tribe of Reuben include:

Privilege Demands Accountability: Reuben was the firstborn and "foremost in dignity and power," but his immorality led to his birthright being forfeited to Joseph and Judah.

The Danger of Instability: Described as "unstable as water" (Genesis 49:4), Reuben represents the danger of being driven by passion rather than principle, leading to loss of influence,

Sin Has Generational Impact: Reuben's moral failures caused his tribe to be small and non-influential, a lesson that selfish actions affect the destiny of descendants.

Choosing Comfort Over Calling: Reuben, along with Gad, chose land east of the Jordan for their livestock rather than entering the Promised Land immediately, highlighting the danger of prioritising convenience over spiritual duty.

Restoration is Possible: Despite their flaws, the Reubenites remained under the covenant and later showed bravery, contributing to the unity of Israel, though they were not as prominent as other tribes.

Commitment to Others: Although they settled early, the tribe promised to fight alongside their brethren to secure Canaan, illustrating the importance of supporting the community's collective success.

Position Does Not Guarantee Success

Reuben held the prestigious status of the firstborn, which traditionally entitled him to a double inheritance and leadership over the family. However, because of his "unstable" character and moral failings, these privileges were transferred to others: the double portion went to Joseph, the priesthood to Levi, and the kingship to Judah.

Lesson: Leadership and blessing are stewardships grounded in character, not entitlement or birthright.

Jacob's final prophecy described Reuben as "unstable as water" (or "turbulent as water"). This refers to his lack of self-control, particularly regarding his impulsive decision to sleep with his father's concubine, Bilhah.

Lesson: A single impulsive act can have multigenerational consequences, altering the destiny of one's descendants.

Lesson: True strength requires self-mastery; without it, even a person with "great potential" may never excel.

Lesson: While sin has consequences, God's grace is sufficient to preserve and redeem those who seek Him.

5 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report