What can we learn about obedience to God from Balaam's response in Numbers 22:16? Setting the Scene “ ‘Let nothing hinder you from coming to me.’ ” (Numbers 22:16) Balak’s envoys press Balaam to set aside every restraint and comply with the king’s request to curse Israel. Balaam’s Initial Stand Although his spoken response is recorded two verses later, his stance emerges here: the pressure is real and the stakes are high. Balaam’s reaction (vv. 18–19) clarifies his position. • “Even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not do anything, great or small, contrary to the command of the Lord my God.” (Numbers 22:18) • He asks the messengers to stay the night so he can “find out what else the Lord may say to me.” (v. 19) Lessons on Obedience • Obedience begins with recognizing God’s absolute authority. Balaam acknowledges that no earthly reward—“silver and gold”—can outweigh the divine command (see Deuteronomy 10:12–13). • External pressure does not alter God’s will. The mandate “Let nothing hinder you” collides with Balaam’s conviction that God’s word is final (Acts 5:29). • True obedience values God’s approval over human honor (Galatians 1:10). • Seeking fresh revelation must never contradict what God has already spoken (Numbers 22:12; Psalm 119:89). • Delay can be wise when used to seek the Lord, but dangerous if used to find a loophole. Balaam’s overnight wait highlights the tension between listening and looking for permission (James 1:5–8). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Samuel 15:22—“To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • James 4:7—“Submit yourselves therefore to God.” Practical Takeaways • Evaluate every invitation by asking, “Does this align with God’s revealed word?” • Refuse to let urgency or incentives silence the voice of Scripture in decision-making. • Cultivate a heart that treasures obedience above all earthly gain. • When faced with pressure, pause to seek God, but be resolved that His first answer remains His final answer. |
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