Compare Numbers 22:7 with Proverbs 11:14 on seeking guidance. What insights emerge? \The Two Verses Side by Side\ Numbers 22:7: “The elders of Moab and Midian departed with the fee for divination in hand, and when they came to Balaam, they conveyed Balak’s message to him.” Proverbs 11:14: “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but with many counselors there is deliverance.” \Two Scenes, Two Kinds of Guidance\ • Numbers 22 shows pagan leaders buying supernatural direction from a professional diviner, Balaam. • Proverbs 11 presents the ideal of collective, wise counsel that fosters safety and success. \Key Contrasts\ • Source – Balaam: a man with a reputation for spiritual power, but open to the highest bidder (vv. 7, 17). – Proverbs: a group of many counselors who fear the LORD (Proverbs 1:7; 15:22). • Motive – Moab and Midian seek an edge over Israel through manipulation. – Proverbs highlights a desire for protection and flourishing of the community. • Method – Paid divination, driven by monetary transaction (cf. Deuteronomy 18:10-12). – Honest dialogue among godly advisers, no bribe attached. • Outcome – Balaam’s counsel almost brings a curse until God intervenes (Numbers 22-24). – Proverbs promises “deliverance” when guidance is plural and upright. \Insights That Emerge\ • Seeking guidance is inevitable; the issue is whom we consult and on what terms. • God condemns attempts to buy or manipulate supernatural direction (Acts 8:18-20). • Wise counsel operates best in plurality, humility, and reverence for God’s Word (Proverbs 3:5-6). • God can override corrupt counsel, yet His people are called to pursue righteous avenues from the start (Psalm 1:1-3). \Supporting Scriptures\ • James 1:5 — God gives wisdom generously, without payment. • Isaiah 8:19 — Reject mediums; seek God instead. • Proverbs 15:22 — “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • 1 Kings 12:6-11 — Rehoboam’s downfall illustrates choosing the wrong counselors. \Practical Takeaways for Walking in Wisdom Today\ • Test every source of guidance against Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Value a circle of mature, God-fearing advisers rather than a single “expert.” • Refuse counsel motivated by profit or personal agenda. • Approach God first, then invite counsel that aligns with His revealed will. |
    |