“Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and he hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it.”
This verse is part of the story of Balak, the king of Moab, who was concerned about the Israelites’ presence in his land. Balak sought the help of a prophet named Balaam to curse the Israelites in an attempt to weaken them. However, God instructed Balaam not to curse the Israelites but to bless them instead.
Context: The book of Numbers records the events that took place during the Israelites’ wilderness journey from Mount Sinai to the Promised Land. In this particular section, the Israelites were encamped on the plains of Moab, and Balak feared their growing strength and sought to curse them.
God’s command to bless: Balaam, as a prophet, received a clear commandment from God to bless the Israelites. Despite Balak’s repeated requests to curse them, Balaam’s role was to convey the words that God had given him. This verse emphasizes that Balaam could not reverse or alter the blessing that God had determined to bestow upon His people.
Divine authority: The statement “he hath blessed” refers to God’s act of blessing the Israelites. When God blesses, His blessings cannot be revoked or changed. God’s blessing upon His chosen people, Israel, was a demonstration of His faithfulness and commitment to fulfill His promises to them.
God’s faithfulness: This verse highlights the unchangeable nature of God’s blessings. When God determines to bless His people, no external influence or human intervention can reverse His divine decree. It underscores God’s faithfulness and His commitment to fulfill His promises despite any opposition or adversity.
Application: Numbers 23:20 reminds us of God’s sovereignty and faithfulness in our lives. Just as He blessed the Israelites in accordance with His divine plan, He blesses His followers today. As believers, we can trust that God’s blessings and promises for our lives are unchangeable and secure. We can have confidence in His faithfulness to fulfill His purposes and plans for us.
Overall, Numbers 23:20 highlights God’s command to bless the Israelites, His unchangeable blessings, and His faithfulness. It serves as a reminder of God’s sovereignty and His commitment to fulfill His promises in the lives of His people.
