How does Numbers 32:7 warn against discouraging others from following God's commands? Setting the scene Reuben and Gad had vast herds and saw that the Trans-Jordan pasturelands were ideal. They asked Moses for this territory instead of crossing the Jordan with the rest of Israel. Moses responded with a pointed question: “ ‘Why are you discouraging the Israelites from crossing into the land the LORD has given them?’ ” (Numbers 32:7) What the warning means • Discouragement can sabotage obedience. By proposing to remain outside Canaan, Reuben and Gad were signaling that the conquest could be optional, dampening the nation’s resolve. • God’s commands are for the whole covenant community. Personal convenience must never override corporate faithfulness. • The question “Why are you discouraging…?” highlights personal responsibility: our choices always influence others, for good or ill. Why discouragement is serious • It multiplies unbelief. Compare the ten spies who “made the hearts of the people melt” (Deuteronomy 1:28; Numbers 13:31-33). • It provokes divine anger. Moses reminds them of the previous generation who “angered the LORD” and were barred from the land (Numbers 32:10-13). • It delays blessing. Forty years of wilderness wandering followed the first wave of discouragement; a repeat would jeopardize entering the promise again. • It hardens hearts. “See to it, brothers, that none of you has a wicked heart of unbelief… But encourage one another daily” (Hebrews 3:12-13). Lessons for us today • My private decisions have public impact. What I omit or pursue shapes the faith atmosphere around me. • Silence can discourage. Failure to speak faith when others hesitate may reinforce doubt. • Leadership is accountable. Parents, pastors, teachers—our example either urges obedience or hinders it (James 3:1). • God expects unity in advancing His purposes (Ephesians 4:3). Fragmented commitment weakens witness and mission. Practical ways to encourage instead 1. Speak God’s promises. Caleb declared, “Their protection has been removed… the LORD is with us” (Numbers 14:9). 2. Celebrate obedience. Affirm those who step out in faith (Philippians 1:3-5). 3. Join the work personally. Reuben and Gad eventually agreed to cross the Jordan armed (Numbers 32:20-22); active participation inspires others. 4. Guard conversations. “Let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Romans 14:19). 5. Pray and act quickly. Early encouragement prevents seeds of doubt from taking root (Hebrews 10:24-25). Summary Numbers 32:7 warns that discouraging others from following God’s commands is no small matter; it undermines faith, invites judgment, and stalls God’s blessings. Our calling is the opposite: to embolden our brothers and sisters to trust and obey the Lord wholeheartedly. |
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