“And Balaam rose up in the morning, and said unto the princes of Balak, Get you into your land: for the LORD refuseth to give me leave to go with you.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible, which describes the journey of the Israelites through the wilderness toward the Promised Land. In this particular chapter, the Israelites had just defeated the Amorites and were encamped in the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River.
Introduction to Balaam: Balaam was a non-Israelite diviner or prophet who was known for his ability to bless or curse people through his words. Balak, the king of Moab, was concerned about the growing number and strength of the Israelites and sought to hire Balaam to curse them.
Balaam’s encounter with Balak’s princes: In this verse, we see Balaam addressing the princes of Balak, who had come to summon him to curse the Israelites. Balaam informs them that God had refused to give him permission to go with them.
God’s instruction to Balaam: Earlier in the chapter, Balak sent messengers to Balaam with rewards, hoping that he would curse the Israelites. However, God spoke to Balaam and told him not to curse the people because they were blessed. God made it clear that Balaam should not go with the messengers or curse the Israelites (Numbers 22:12).
Balaam’s obedience to God: Although Balaam was a diviner who was known for his ability to curse or bless, he recognized God’s authority and chose to obey Him. Despite the rewards offered by Balak, Balaam refused to go against God’s instructions.
Lessons from Numbers 22:13:
- God’s sovereignty: This verse highlights God’s sovereignty over the affairs of humans. Balaam acknowledged that the LORD refused to allow him to go with the princes of Balak. It reminds us that no matter how influential or powerful individuals may be, they cannot go against God’s will.
- Obedience to God: Balaam’s response demonstrates the importance of obedience to God’s commands. Even though Balaam had the opportunity for personal gain and prestige, he chose to follow God’s instructions rather than pursuing his own desires. This serves as a reminder for us to prioritize obedience to God’s Word over personal ambitions or worldly rewards.
- Trusting God’s blessings: Balaam recognized that the Israelites were blessed by God, and he refused to curse them. This verse reminds us that God’s blessings are irrevocable, and no human can reverse or hinder them. It encourages us to trust in God’s promises and blessings, even in the face of opposition or challenges.
Application: As believers, we should seek to align our will with God’s will and obey His commands, even when faced with temptations or opportunities for personal gain. We can find encouragement in the example of Balaam, who chose obedience and trusted in God’s blessings. Let us trust in God’s sovereignty and faithfully follow His guidance in our lives.
Remember to read and study the surrounding verses and chapters to gain a deeper understanding of the context and overall message of the book of Numbers.
