How does Numbers 10:29 illustrate the importance of sharing God's promises with others? Context: A Personal Invitation on the Move Numbers 10 finds Israel breaking camp for the first time under the newly given laws of the trumpets. In verse 29 Moses turns to Hobab—his brother-in-law—and extends a heartfelt invitation: “Then Moses said to Hobab son of Reuel the Midianite, Moses’ father-in-law, ‘We are setting out for the place about 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.’ ” What Moses Shares: The Content of the Promise • God’s destination: “the place … ‘I will give it to you.’” • God’s goodness: “the LORD has promised good things to Israel.” • Israel’s intention: “we will treat you well.” Moses is not simply informing Hobab about travel plans; he is declaring the covenant promise of God that guarantees blessing and a home. Why This Matters: Three Reasons Moses Models Promise-Sharing 1. Obedience to God’s revelation • When God speaks, His people relay the message (Deuteronomy 6:7; Psalm 145:4). 2. Invitation into covenant blessing • Moses wants Hobab to experience the same mercy Israel enjoys (Genesis 12:2-3; Isaiah 56:3-7). 3. Testimony that strengthens faith • Speaking the promise out loud reminds Israel—and Hobab—of God’s reliability (Psalm 105:1-5). Principles We Can Live By • God’s promises are meant for public proclamation, not private possession. • Sharing the promise extends the reach of God’s grace to outsiders. • Inviting others reinforces our own confidence in God’s faithfulness. • The credibility of our witness grows when we combine promise-sharing with genuine kindness: “we will treat you well.” Echoes in the Rest of Scripture • Good news meant to be told: “We proclaim to you the good news of the promise” (Acts 13:32). • Commissioned to invite: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19-20). • Ambassadors of reconciliation: “We are ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Ready to answer: “Always be prepared to give a defense … for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15). Walking It Out Today • Recall a specific promise of God you have recently read. Speak it aloud to someone who needs hope. • Pair your words with tangible kindness, mirroring Moses’ pledge of good treatment. • Expect God to honor His promises as you welcome others into the journey of faith. |
    |