7Then Balaam spoke his message: "Balak brought me from Aram, the king of Moab from the eastern mountains. ‘Come,’ he said, ‘curse Jacob for me; come, denounce Israel.’
8How can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce those whom the Lord has not denounced?
- P85
Balak takes Balaam to a high place and offers sacrifices as Balaam demands. Balaam, instructed by God, pronounces a blessing upon Israel instead ofcursing them. - P85
Balak protests and reminds Balaam that he was hired to curseIsrael, but Balaam insists he can only speak what God commands. - P85
Balak takes Balaam to a high place to see Israel’s vast camp, emphasizing the threat they pose to him. Balaam instructs Balak to build seven altars and offer sacrifices. Balaam warns, however, that he will not speak on his own; he must wait for God’s word. This highlights an essential truth: before acting, we must pause and listen to God. - P86
Too often, fear or urgency pushes us to rush to make decisions without seeking His guidance. Balaam, though greedy for gain, understands that encountering God requires intentionality. How much more should we? Are we creating space for God to speak into our lives, or are we allowing the noise of our circumstances to dictate our actions? - P86
God promises to direct us when we are humble enough to listen to Him (see Ps. 25:9). - P86
To Balak’s dismay, Balaam’s words are not curses but blessings for Israel. Balaam declares that he cannot curse those whom God has chosen to bless. - P86
God’s will is unchangeable, and His promises stand firm. Despite Balak’s repeated attempts to manipulate Balaam into reversing God’s blessing, Balaam ultimately recognizes that he must only declare what God commands. - P86
This passage reminds us that God’s blessings are irrevocable. No external force can overturn what God has decreed for His people. - P86
As followers of Christ, we are called to stand firm in obedience to God, speaking His truth even when it is inconvenient or goes against the expectations of others. - P86
God’s faithfulness ensures that His purposes will always prevail. - P86
Heavenly Father, I thank you for Your unwavering faithfulness. - P87
Your blessings cannot be reversed, and Your promises endure forever. - P87
Help me to stand firm in obedience to Your will, trusting in Your protection and provision. - P87
Strengthen me to speak Your truth boldly, regardless of opposition. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P87
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