Numbers 31-32

“Why will you discourage the heart of the people of Israel from going over into the land that the LORD has given them?” (32:7). The people of Israel were a covenant community, not just individuals. When the tribes of Reuben and Gad wanted to settle on the Jordan River’s east side, rather than pressing on with the other tribes to possess the land, Moses rebuked them.  They had a responsibility to the whole nation, not just to their own tribe or family. 

“We will not return to our homes until each of the people of Israel has gained his inheritance” (32:18).  Following Jesus means we belong to a new covenant community, and we share both our struggles and a glorious inheritance.