How does Numbers 10:29 encourage us to invite others into God's blessings today? Setting the Scene: Moses’ Open-Armed Invitation “Then Moses said to Hobab son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses’ father-in-law, ‘We are setting out for the place of which the LORD said, ‘I will give it to you.’ Come with us, and we will treat you well, for the LORD has promised good things to Israel.’ ” (Numbers 10:29) • Israel has just received marching orders from the LORD’s cloud at Sinai. • Hobab, a Midianite by birth, stands outside the covenant community, yet Moses welcomes him without reservation. • The offer is rooted in God’s literal promise of a land flowing with blessing (Exodus 3:8). Patterns Worth Noticing • Personal call – Moses addresses Hobab by name, not through a general proclamation. • Confidence in Scripture – “the LORD said” forms the basis for the invitation; trust in God’s word fuels outreach. • Expectation of good – Moses assumes tangible favor for anyone who joins God’s people. • Partnership on the journey – Hobab’s wilderness skills will benefit Israel (Numbers 10:31-32), showing that newcomers enrich the body. Blessing Was Never Meant to Stay in One Nation • Genesis 12:3 – “In you all the families of the earth will be blessed.” • Isaiah 55:1 – “Come, all you who thirst, come to the waters…” • The covenant carries a missionary impulse from the start; Hobab’s inclusion previews Gentile salvation. Practical Ways to Echo Moses Today • Share God’s promises plainly, quoting Scripture rather than opinions. • Extend friendship beyond familiar circles; look for outsiders in workplaces, classrooms, neighborhoods. • Speak confidently of the good God plans for those who join His family (John 10:10). • Invite others to journey alongside you—church gatherings, Bible reading plans, service projects. • Highlight mutual benefit; new believers bring gifts the body needs (1 Corinthians 12:7). New-Covenant Reinforcement • Luke 14:23 – “Go out to the roads and country lanes and compel them to come in, so that my house will be full.” • Acts 2:39 – “The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off.” • Revelation 22:17 – “Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who desires take the water of life freely.” The same Spirit who moved Moses now sends believers to welcome every Hobab they meet. A Closing Charge: Carry the Invitation Forward With Scripture as foundation and the certainty of God’s goodness before us, step out like Moses—look people in the eye, invite them into the journey, and trust the LORD to pour His promised blessings on all who say yes. |
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