How does Balaam's response in Numbers 24:10 demonstrate obedience to God's will? Context in a Nutshell • Balak, king of Moab, hires Balaam to curse Israel (Numbers 22–24) • God repeatedly tells Balaam to speak only what He commands (Numbers 22:12, 35; 23:12, 26) • After three Spirit-inspired oracles of blessing, Balak explodes with anger (Numbers 24:10) Balak’s Outburst “Then Balak’s anger burned against Balaam, and he struck his hands together and said to him, ‘I summoned you to curse my enemies, but you have blessed them these three times.’” (Numbers 24:10) Balaam’s Obedient Response “Balaam replied to Balak, ‘Did I not already tell the messengers you sent me that even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not exceed the command of the LORD by my own will, whether good or bad? I will say whatever the LORD says.’” (Numbers 24:12-13) How Balaam Demonstrates Obedience • Stands firm under pressure – Refuses a wealthy bribe (silver, gold, a royal palace) – Keeps God’s word unchanged despite the king’s fury • Submits entirely to divine authority – “I could not exceed the command of the LORD” echoes earlier pledges (Numbers 22:18; 23:26) – Mirrors the prophet’s role in Deuteronomy 18:18: speak only what God puts in the mouth • Accepts personal loss for the sake of truth – Sacrifices potential fame and fortune (cf. Mark 8:36) – Risks the wrath of a powerful ruler, choosing God over man (Acts 5:29) • Models integrity in speech – No mix of blessing and curse; only what God allows (James 3:10) – Aligns with Proverbs 30:6: “Do not add to His words” • Affirms the unchangeable nature of God’s blessing – Once God blesses, no human can reverse it (Numbers 23:20; Romans 11:29) Key Takeaways for Today • Obedience may invite opposition but remains non-negotiable (1 Samuel 15:22) • True servants of God resist any incentive to twist Scripture or prophecy • Faithfulness sometimes costs earthly reward, yet secures eternal approval • God’s purposes stand firm; our role is simply to echo His word, not edit it |
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