The problem: there were divisions forming among the people and all the people were starting to complain.
The solution: the leaders of the tribes give Moses a staff with their name on it. God shows His choice for the tribe of Levi by causing Aaron’s staff to bud with almonds. This staff is kept in the ark as a reminder of what the Lord confirmed. National unity is (somewhat) preserved.
The point: it is hard not to defend yourself and it is hard to see people tear themselves up over rivalries. But it is always better when the Lord is our advocate and not our impulses or our fears. (And it is always better when God sorts out people problems without our help.)
