This pasuk seems to imply that it would not be easy to find truly honest and G-d fearing men. Indeed, Moshe had to rely upon ruach ha’kodesh, Divine inspiration, in determining the true nature of these men. Horav Moshe Shternbuch, Shlita, points out that individuals of such laudable character do not seek to publicize themselves as they are secure in their own self-image. They tend to hide from public recognition. Moshe had to resort to a somewhat novel approach for finding these unique individuals.
The Chezkuni makes a profound interpretation of G-d fearing men. He suggests that a true yoreh shomayim, G-d fearing Jew, fears only Hashem and no other being. Fear of man detracts from fear of Hashem. This concept may also be advanced in regard to bitachon, trust in Hashem. To place one’s trust in Hashem means to devote one’s entire faith to the Almighty. To apportion one’s bitachon is to indicate a deficiency in one’s trust in Hashem’s “ability” to minister to his needs.
