But God said to Balaam, “Do not go with them. You must not put a curse on those people, because they are blessed.” Numbers 22:12 (Chapters 22-24)
The LORD delivered the Amorites into the hands of the Israelites. It was obvious that the Israelites were a powerful force, on the move toward Canaan. Balak, king of Moab decided to be proactive in a very pagan manner. He summoned Balaam to come and curse his enemies.
The use of words, in the manner of blessings, curses and elaborate ceremony, was held in high regard and perceived as an extremely powerful bond with one’s friends and a tool against one’s enemies. Balak summoned Balaam, a diviner, a prophet of some notoriety, and offered him great financial gain if he would curse Israel. Balaam was not an Israelite nor a follower of the One True God, but God used this man of evil intent to deliver His own message.
In a dream, Balaam saw that God blessed Israel and no promise of doom from him will alter their course, so he refuses to go with Balak’s elders. They offer more money. He saddles his donkey and heads out only to be stopped by a stubborn pack animal in the middle of the road. After many beatings, the animal speaks and soon Balaam sees the Angle of the LORD that the donkey sees. This experience did not turn Balaam’s heart toward the LORD, but it did give him indisputable conviction that God would have his way over Balak, the Moabites and the Midianites.
Evil will not overcome God’s goodness, even when it seems evil has permeated all there is to see, hear and feel. Numbers 23:19 tells the character of God. He is not of human source, therefore, not held by man’s restrictions. He is a God of action and He will bless those who honor Him.
Have a Great Monday,
Gretchen