“And the Lord met Balaam, and put a word in his mouth, and said, Go again unto Balak, and say thus.”
Context: The book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Bible, and it records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the border of the Promised Land. In Numbers 22-24, we encounter the story of Balaam, a diviner whom Balak, the king of Moab, sought to hire to curse the Israelites.
Balaam and Balak: Balak was concerned about the Israelites’ military might and feared their presence in his land. He hoped that by hiring Balaam to pronounce curses upon them, he could weaken them or even drive them away. However, God had already commanded Balaam not to curse the Israelites because they were blessed by Him.
The Meeting with God: In Numbers 23:16, we see that God met Balaam and put a word in his mouth. This encounter occurred after Balaam had attempted to curse the Israelites three times at Balak’s request but instead ended up blessing them. Despite Balaam’s desire for reward and his initial attempts to comply with Balak’s wishes, God intervened and prevented him from cursing His chosen people.
God’s Instruction: The verse states that God instructed Balaam to go back to Balak and convey a specific message to him. This message would further affirm God’s favor and blessing upon the Israelites, making it clear that Balaam’s attempts to curse them were futile.
Lessons and Takeaways:
- God’s sovereignty: Numbers 23:16 highlights God’s authority and control over human affairs. Despite Balaam’s intentions, God intervened to ensure His purposes would be fulfilled.
- God’s protection and blessing: God’s protection and blessing were upon the Israelites. Balak’s attempts to harm them were in vain because God was watching over His people.
- God’s faithfulness: This verse demonstrates God’s faithfulness to His promises. He had already declared that the Israelites were blessed, and He would not allow any curse to prevail against them.
Application:
- Trust in God’s sovereignty: Just as God directed Balaam’s words, we should trust in God’s sovereignty over our lives. Even when others may seek to harm us or undermine our blessings, God is in control.
- Seek God’s blessing: The story reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s blessing and living according to His will. The Israelites’ protection and favor came from their obedience to God’s commands.
- Stand firm in God’s promises: When faced with opposition or challenges, we should stand firm in God’s promises. The Israelites’ blessing was not dependent on their circumstances but on God’s faithfulness to His covenant.
Numbers 23:16 teaches us about God’s sovereignty, protection, and faithfulness. It reminds us to trust in Him, seek His blessings, and stand firm in His promises.
