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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise You told Balak, “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?” (Num 23:19). I praise you today as the God who keeps your word. It is impossible for you to lie, and your promise is a sure and steadfast anchor for my soul (Heb 6:13–19). Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you told me how Balak, the king of Moab, asked Balaam, a famous diviner, to curse the Israelites. Balak sent a delegation of leaders to convey the seriousness of his request, and Balaam invited them to stay until he learned your will. You told him plainly, “You shall not go with them. You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed” (Num 22:12). Balaam refused to go with them, but Balak didn’t take Balaam’s ‘No’ for an answer. He sent back more important nobles and offered him a blank check for services rendered. At first, it seemed as though Balaam was loyal and obedient to you, but his next move revealed the pride and greed that were in his heart: “So you, too, please stay here tonight, that I may know what more the Lord will say to me” (Num 22:19). Balaam wanted Balak’s money, and he was hoping you would change your mind! You permitted Balaam to go in order to test him, but when Balaam went, you were angry, for Balaam knew you hadn’t changed your mind (Num 22:20). Balaam’s desire for money was greater than his desire to obey you. You could have killed Balaam, but you had mercy on him and allowed his donkey to save his life. Even then, he still wanted to go (Num 22:34b)! You let him continue, but you used him to bless Israel and teach Balak what kind of God you are. Reflection I was struck today by how different Phinehas was from Balaam. Do I desire fame and wealth more than obedience to your will? Am I willing to sever all ties with those who might lead me into sin? Request Father, give me a jealousy for your name (Num 25:11). Help me to hate sin and take a stand against those who would lead others into temptation. Thanksgiving Thank you for your mercy! You are not willing that any should perish, and you even allowed Balaam’s donkey to speak in an effort to turn him from sin. Truly your love endures forever! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “How Blest the Righteous When He Dies” by Anna L. Barbauld. Meditation Verse: Numbers 25:11–13. |