“The oldest son of Israel was Reuben. But since he dishonoured his father by sleeping with one of his fathers concubines, his birthright was given to the sons of his brother Joseph. For this reason, Reuben is not listed in the genealogical records as the firstborn son.” 1 Chronicles 5:1 NLT
There are various quotes and sayings found online indicating that your actions today reflect your tomorrow. This would be true for Reuben. Even though he actually was the firstborn, his actions caused him to lose that right. Looking back, I’m sure Reuben would have liked to re-do that part of his life, but that is not possible. Nor is it possible for us. Satan loves to sneak in and plant the seed of temptation, which will only provide short term gratification.
When we are facing the battle of temptation, may we remember to cry out to God, just as the 44,760 Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh did. “God answered their prayers, because they trusted in Him.” (Verse 20b NIV) What may have seemed impossible, God made possible. After they defeated the Hagrite army, they took capture of 150,000 of their men. They seized more men after the battle than they had going into the battle!
Just as this physical battle was God’s, so are our personal battles. We just have to trust in Him, and give Him the battle to win. It’s His battle, and it’s His glory.
Lock Your Wings 
That second verse you mentioned also stood out for me:
“They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him. So the Hagrites and all their allies were defeated.”
1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT
When we trust in Him and pray, He will answer us. Big things happen when we trust and pray.
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