The Israelites, having left Egypt and journeyed through the wilderness, were now a formidable presence. Their numbers had grown significantly, and their reputation preceded them. Moab, a neighboring nation, saw the Israelites not just as a large group of people, but as a potential threat. This fear was not unfounded, as the Israelites were known to be under the protection of a powerful God who had performed miraculous deeds on their behalf. Moab's dread reflects a common theme in the Bible where the presence of God's people causes unease among those who do not understand or share their faith.
This situation also illustrates the broader narrative of God's promise to Abraham to make his descendants numerous and to bless them. The Israelites' journey was not just a physical migration but a spiritual journey of faith and reliance on God. Moab's fear serves as a reminder of the respect and awe that God's people can inspire when they walk in His ways. It also challenges us to consider how our own faith and actions might impact those around us, encouraging us to live in a way that reflects God's love and power.