Numbers 27 - Dying Intestate

As I started this blog I planned to highlight financial principles from scripture to help us be better stewards of our time, talent, money and possessions. Over the last few chapters we have had indirect references to stewardship by examining God's holiness, man's failures and principles of leadership. Here in Numbers 27 we have direct stewardship again. Who inherits your stuff when you are gone?  

Unlike today where we allow every person to direct their property after death within certain guidelines, everyone in Moses' time died intestate. No will needed. There were traditions that governed the distribution of the estate. First the oldest son and then down through the sons. Women inherited by virtue of being in the home of a man who would be their provider. 

Zelophehad had only daughters. These daughters came to Moses and asked to have their share of their fathers inheritance. The land was being distributed among the tribes and they wanted to be included in that distribution. Moses seeks God and receives what is now the basis for distribution of property of a person dies without a will. 

First: down through the children

Second: if no children go to siblings

Third: if no siblings, go up a generation to parents and their siblings

Fourth: nearest relative

Our legal system looks to our Lord for its wisdom.  Even though it may seem that more and more our government looks away from scripture, it's roots are deep. Thank God our forefathers honored The Lord in establishing our rule of law. 

The other thing to notice is that women are not treated as chattel by God. He lives Wien and honors them by providing for their needs. Women are highly esteemed by God. So highly esteemed that God said his seed would be delivered through a woman and that seed would overcome sin and death to offer a hope of eternal salvation. 

My friend, you have an opportunity to designate your wealth on passing from the world. Since that wealth comes from Gods hand we should do everything possible to insure that those who inherit are trained with godly wisdom to apply that wealth for God's glory. 

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you serve Him.