Break the cycle

In my previous article I talked about this conflict that existed between Canaan and Israel. While one side, from the evidence that can be gathered was more justified than the other, both sides did do wrong.  Both sides have committed acts of violence and hurt. 

In fact on one hand the Lord permitted the Israelites to make war with the Canaanite (Philistines, Assyrians ,etc.) people around them, but the Lord would put strict limits on how such wars were to be conducted.  I’m certain from what I know of God’s nature that He didn’t want His children to fight with one another and destroy one another. But if warfare becomes necessary then God would rather it be fine for the right reasons and that it is conducted in the right way. 

Allow me to explain. Throughout history, most wars were fought for one purpose. That purpose was usually to get gain. Armies would plunder and pillage wherever they went for gain. Kings would expand their territory to increase tax revenue and tribute. Taxes were enforced by the sword. Men would take their neighbors property. Spoils of war were then carried off to benefit the army, the ruler and the people. So how might God test and prove those that claim to be his people?  In times of war He can take away the gain. 

If the Lord demands that you kill the men and leave the women and children, what historically became of those people?  As terrible as it may be, most often the women and children were among the spoils of war. Slaves and servants that do the bidding of their conquerers.  Now aside from the fact that these people will resent their captors, which could cause problems later on, in the short term these people represent an opportunity for profit. They are a readily available source of labor which may be useful to work the conquered land and as such, from a materialistic standpoint, they are an asset.   So if God instructs the Israelites to kill the women and children too, much of the lucre of war goes with it.  Any conquered land will have to be worked by the people themselves which removes much of the benefit of conquest. And whether or not the Israelites obeyed said much about their condition. When they tried to gain by warfare, the Lord was displeased with them. 

And what of destroying the flocks and herds too?  Again, the animals and crops represent a wealth and an easy harvest. But if the people will destroy it rather than profit by it, it says much about the condition of their hearts. 

If one looks at the Old Testament history with open eyes, one sees that God didn’t actually want His children going to war. At times it may become necessary, and when it is necessary, God will lay out how such wars are to be conducted.  He would rather things be resolved peacefully.  And while men may be justified in defending themselves and their families, some of the most blessed are those who choose to break that cycle of warfare and bloodshed.  As Christ said —

“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.  Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” - Matthew 5:9-10

Men may be justified in conflict at times, but there is a much greater blessing in forsaking our own will and desires and instead fulfill the law. Justice may demand that restitution be made, but Christ laid out and taught a better way. In our day, let Esau and Jacob be reconciled. Be the peacemaker.