Numbers 22:13

And Balaam rose vp in the morning, and said vnto the Princes of Balak, Get you into your land: for the Lord refuseth to giue mee leaue to goe with you. Numbers 22:13 (KJV)

The book of Numbers, the fourth book of the Bible, records the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. In this chapter the Israelites had just defeated the Amorites and were encamped in the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River. Balaam, a non‑Israelite diviner or prophet, was renowned for his ability to bless or curse people through his words. Balak, the king of Moab, was alarmed by the growing number and strength of the Israelites and sought to hire Balaam to curse them.

In Numbers 22:13 Balaam addresses the princes of Balak who had come to summon him. He tells them that the LORD has refused to give him leave to go with them, indicating that God had denied his request to accompany the messengers at that time.

Earlier in the chapter Balak had sent messengers bearing rewards, hoping that Balaam would curse the Israelites. God spoke to Balaam and instructed him not to curse the people because they were blessed (see Numbers 22:12). God made it clear that Balaam should not go with the messengers or pronounce a curse. Later, in Numbers 22:21‑35, God permits Balaam to go under specific conditions, again warning him not to curse Israel.

Balaam’s response demonstrates his recognition of God’s authority. Although he was offered personal gain and prestige, he chose to obey God’s command and initially refused to go against the divine instruction. When God later allowed him to travel, it was only with a clear warning not to curse Israel, showing Balaam’s continued obedience under God’s direction.

Lessons from this verse include the sovereignty of God over human affairs; no matter how influential or powerful individuals may be, they cannot override God’s will. The passage also underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands, urging believers to prioritize divine instruction over personal ambition or worldly rewards. Finally, Balaam’s acknowledgment that the Israelites were blessed reminds us that God’s blessings are irrevocable and cannot be undone by human curses.

Application for today’s believers is to align our will with God’s will, trusting His sovereignty and faithfully following His guidance even when tempted by attractive opportunities. By emulating Balaam’s obedience, we can prioritize God’s Word above personal gain and rest assured in the certainty of God’s promises and blessings.