“But the angel of the LORD said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.”
Context:The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and focuses on the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In Numbers 22, the Israelites are camped in the plains of Moab, and Balak, the king of Moab, becomes alarmed by the Israelites’ increasing numbers. Balak seeks to curse the Israelites and employs the services of Balaam, a renowned diviner, to accomplish this.
Balaam’s Encounter:In this particular verse, Balaam has set out on his journey to meet Balak, accompanied by the princes of Balak. Along the way, an angel of the LORD appears before Balaam, though he is initially unaware of the angel’s presence. Balaam’s donkey sees the angel and veers off the path three times, causing Balaam to strike the donkey each time. Finally, the LORD allows the donkey to speak, drawing Balaam’s attention to the angel. In response, the angel instructs Balaam to speak only the words that the angel will give him.
Divine Instruction:The angel’s command to Balaam carries a significant message. Balaam, as a diviner, was accustomed to using his own abilities to bring about curses or blessings. However, in this instance, God intervenes and instructs Balaam to speak only the words given to him by the angel. This signifies that Balaam’s own intentions and desires are to be set aside in favour of God’s divine purpose.
Obedience and Submission:Balaam’s response to the angel’s instruction reveals his obedience. Despite his desire for personal gain or to please Balak, Balaam heeds the angel’s words and continues his journey with the princes of Balak. This demonstrates a recognition of God’s authority and a willingness to submit to His guidance.
Application:The account of Balaam and the angel conveys several valuable lessons. First, it highlights the importance of seeking and following God’s instructions rather than relying solely on personal abilities or desires. Balaam’s obedience serves as a reminder that God’s plans and purposes are higher and should take precedence over our own agendas. Additionally, the narrative emphasizes the significance of recognising divine intervention and remaining open to God’s guidance, even when it may be unexpected or challenging.
Overall, Numbers 22:34 teaches us about obedience, submission to God’s will, and the importance of seeking divine guidance in our lives. It reminds us that God’s instructions are superior to our own plans and that following His leading can lead to blessings and fulfilment of His purposes.
