Numbers 24:1

And when Balaam sawe that it pleased the Lord to blesse Israel, hee went not, as at other times to seeke for inchantments, but hee set his face toward the wildernesse. Numbers 24:1 (KJV)

Context and Background: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and focuses on the wilderness journey of the Israelites after their deliverance from Egypt. The events in Numbers 24 occur during the latter part of that journey when the Israelites were camped in the plains of Moab, preparing to enter the Promised Land. Balaam was a non‑Israelite prophet who was summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites; however, God intervened and prevented Balaam from cursing them.

The Pleasure of the Lord: In Numbers 24:1 it states that Balaam saw “that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel.” This indicates that God had chosen to bless the Israelites despite the attempts of Balak and Balaam to curse them. It highlights the sovereignty of God and His divine plan for the nation of Israel. God’s favour was upon them, and His blessings were with them. The verse reminds us that God’s pleasure is not based on human opinions or external circumstances but on His own purposes and plans.

Balaam’s Change of Approach: The verse continues, stating that Balaam “went not, as at other times, to seek for enchantments.” This suggests a change in Balaam’s approach. Previously he had attempted to use enchantments or sorcery to gain insight or manipulate divine outcomes, but because God was already inclined to bless Israel, Balaam realised there was no need for enchantments. Instead, Balaam “set his face toward the wilderness,” turning his attention and focus toward the wilderness where the Israelites were encamped, positioning himself to hear from God and receive divine revelation.

Application:

God’s blessings and favour are not dependent on external circumstances or human manipulation. When God chooses to bless, nothing can hinder His purposes. Like Balaam, we should align our hearts and desires with God’s will rather than seeking worldly means or relying on our own understanding. When we recognise God’s favour and blessings upon others, we should not harbour envy or attempt to obstruct what God is doing; instead we should rejoice and align ourselves with His plans. Our posture should be one of seeking God’s guidance and direction, positioning ourselves to hear from Him and follow His leading.