Numbers 22:12
And God saide vnto Balaam; Thou shalt not goe with them, thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed. Numbers 22:12 (KJV)
The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible and continues the narrative of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this passage the Israelites had reached the plains of Moab, and Balak, the king of Moab, was fearful of their presence. Balak sought the help of Balaam, a well‑known diviner, to curse the Israelites in an attempt to weaken them.
Balak’s messengers came to Balaam, urging him to join them and curse the people of Israel. Balaam sought the Lord’s guidance regarding this matter, and God responded to him directly. In response to Balaam’s inquiry, God clearly instructed him not to go with Balak’s messengers and not to curse the Israelites, emphasizing that the people of Israel were blessed.
God’s command reveals His protection and blessing upon the people of Israel. Despite Balak’s fear and his attempt to seek a curse, God ensured that no harm would come to His chosen people. The instruction demonstrates God’s sovereign control over the situation and His commitment to preserving and blessing His nation.
Although God made His will clear, Balaam was enticed by the offer of wealth and honour from Balak. He initially expressed a desire to go with the messengers, but God intervened, redirecting his actions and preventing him from acting contrary to divine direction.
The passage underscores several key lessons. First, God’s blessings are powerful and cannot be reversed or nullified by human schemes; when God blesses His people, no weapon formed against them shall prosper (cf. Isaiah 54:17). Second, obedience to God’s commands is essential; even when faced with tempting offers, believers must prioritize following God’s will rather than pursuing personal gain. Third, the narrative affirms God’s faithful protection of His people, giving believers confidence that He is their protector and that His favour rests upon them. Finally, the encounter demonstrates God’s sovereignty over all events, showing that He can redirect even the plans of those who seek to harm His people.
