Old Testament
Numbers 32:7
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Why would you discourage the people of Israel from crossing into the land the LORD has given them?
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And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the LORD hath given them?
What Numbers 32:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Moses is addressing the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who expressed a desire to settle on the east side of the Jordan River instead of entering the Promised Land. He questions their intentions, highlighting the potential negative impact of their decision on the morale of the entire Israelite community. By choosing not to cross into the land God promised, they risk discouraging others from pursuing God's plan. Moses emphasizes the importance of unity and faith in God's promises, reminding them that their actions can influence the faith and courage of their fellow Israelites. This moment serves as a reminder of the responsibility leaders have to encourage and uplift those they lead, especially in times of uncertainty or fear. The verse underscores the significance of collective faith and the dangers of allowing personal desires to hinder communal progress toward God's promises.
How to apply Numbers 32:7 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of encouraging others in their faith journeys. As individuals, we should be mindful of how our choices and attitudes can affect those around us. We must strive to support and uplift one another, especially when facing challenges, to foster a strong community rooted in faith and trust in God's promises.
Curated for this public verse page. Numbers Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
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Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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At a Glance — the Book of Numbers
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Numbers 32:7 mean?
In Numbers 32:7, Moses questions the tribes of Reuben and Gad about their decision to settle on the east side of the Jordan River instead of entering the Promised Land. He highlights how their choice could discourage the rest of the Israelites from pursuing God's promise.
What is the significance of discouraging others in Numbers 32:7?
The verse emphasizes the impact of individual choices on the community's morale. Moses warns that by not crossing into the Promised Land, the tribes risk demoralizing others and hindering their collective faith and progress.
How does Numbers 32:7 relate to leadership?
Numbers 32:7 illustrates the importance of leadership in fostering unity and faith. Moses calls out the tribes for potentially discouraging others, highlighting that leaders should inspire and uplift their communities.
What lessons can we learn from Numbers 32:7?
From this verse, we learn the importance of supporting others in their faith journeys. Our choices and attitudes can significantly impact those around us, so we should strive to encourage one another, especially in challenging times.
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