These are the descendants of Reuben, the oldest of Jacob’s sons. (Because he had sex with one of his father’s concubines, he lost the rights belonging to the first-born son, and those rights were given to Joseph.
Sad. The consequences of the crimes of passion: sex (Genesis 35:22), money (Joshua 7) – the list goes on and on. All traps that ensnare (Matthew 13:18-23). May I avoid them and be ever “good soil”, Jesus!
…soldiers, well-trained in the use of shields, swords, and bows.
So may I be, Lord (Ephesians 6:14-17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17).
They killed many of the enemy, because the war was God’s will. And they went on living in that territory until the exile.
Will I one day do something of significance because it’s your will, Lord?
They were all outstanding soldiers, well-known leaders of their clans.
I do hope to be someone of value, Lord. Well-known, I am certainly most not…
Ephraim had two other sons besides Shuthelah: Ezer and Elead, who were killed when they tried to steal the livestock belonging to the native inhabitants of Gath.
So this was not God’s will?
So Saul and his three sons all died together, and none of his descendants ever ruled.
Tragic – and it all could have been completely different (1 Samuel 13:13-14). Help me to remain on Plan A, Lord. May I be patient.