When the Sure Thing isn't so Sure

Scripture: And they said, "If we have found favor in your sight, let this land be given to your servants for a possession. Do not take us across the Jordan." Numbers 32:5

Observation: The tribes of Israel are moving into the promised land, to cleanse and occupy it. As they are about to enter, two tribes, Reuben and Gad, ask Moses if they could hang back. They have found land much more suitable for their needs on the other side of the Jordan. Were they afraid of battle? Maybe they saw the land on this side of the Jordan as "a sure thing" compared to the risk of the promised land.
Moses strikes a compromise with them. If they will fight alongside the other tribes until the promised land is secure, then they can return to this land and live there. The two tribes agree and fulfill their obligation.
However, history shows this to be a bad decision. The land Reuben and Gad requested is referred to as the Transjordan. It lacked natural defenses, and was vulnerable to Israel's enemies. It was often the first land invaded. Several times, Israel lost control of this land. In fact, when Reuben is mentioned in the bible, it is never in a way that shows it controlled this land. The sure thing turned out to be not so sure.

Application: Be careful what you wish for could be the immediate takeaway. But the problem is not poor land assessment. The problem is that God gave the tribes a land of promise and two tribes thought they could do better. Moses even connects this decision with the fear of the spies who initially surveyed the land. The problem is that Reuben and Gad could not trust that what God had for them was better than what their eyes could see. They walked by sight, not by faith.

What is it in my life that God has promised, but I am turning down for what appears to be better? Can I hold out for His promise, or do I need to grab what I can now? Is it really a sure thing if is is not God's thing?

Prayer: God, show me today where I am choosing the Transjordan for the Promised land. Don't let me take the easy road.