From my NKJV Study Bible: (I think this is really important to get our heads around before we get into the message contained in this chapter of the Bible)
The book of Numbers describes the events right before the Israelites entered the promised land. Similar to the tension filled days before a great battle or election day, these events reveal the Israelites restlessness and impatience, but also the anticipation of what God would do. The Israelites made grave mistakes during this crucial period, and God disciplined them. But through the discipline and instruction God trained the Israelites not only to Worship Him, but to trust in Him for the ultimate victory.
The long losts of numbers and names in Numbers discourage many readers. However, these must be viewed as the ancient Israelites viewed them. The lists were the final roll call before the battle, they prompted praise to God for His faithfulness. He had protected them and multiplied their numbers even in the middle of a barren wilderness.
From this position may we put into perspective the magnitude of the message we enter into in the Book of Numbers.
