How does Numbers 23:18 demonstrate God's unchanging nature in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Numbers 23 captures the moment when Balaam, compelled by God, speaks blessing instead of curse over Israel. Verse 18 introduces his oracle to King Balak. Key Scripture “Then Balaam lifted up an oracle and declared: ‘Arise, O Balak, and listen; give ear to me, O son of Zippor.’” (Numbers 23:18) (The very next line, v. 19, completes the thought: “God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind.”) What the Moment Tells Us about God’s Unchanging Nature • The oracle is delivered under divine compulsion—Balaam can only speak what God puts in his mouth. • God’s words, once spoken, are irrevocable. Balak’s expectations, Balaam’s reputation, Israel’s circumstances—none can alter what God intends to say or do. • By contrasting God with humans (“not a man, that He should lie”), Scripture affirms that every attribute of God—truthfulness, faithfulness, holiness—remains steady and unaffected by external pressure. How This Anchors Our Daily Lives • Confidence in Promises – God’s promises do not shift with cultural trends or personal moods (Psalm 119:89). – We can approach daily challenges certain that His word stands firm (Isaiah 40:8). • Security in Salvation – The same God who preserved Israel keeps believers today (John 10:28–29). – Assurance rests on His changeless character, not our fluctuating emotions. • Stability in Decision-Making – Knowing God’s nature is constant allows us to weigh choices against timeless truth rather than temporary feelings (James 1:17). • Courage under Pressure – Just as Balaam could not override God, neither can today’s opposition thwart His plans for those who trust Him (Romans 8:31). Walking It Out 1. Start each day by recalling a promise of God and declaring, “His word has not changed.” 2. When tempted to doubt, reread Numbers 23:18–19 and remind yourself that no circumstance can force God to revise His commitments. 3. Reflect on past instances where God’s faithfulness carried you—use them as anchors when new storms arise. Further Scriptures Confirming God’s Stability • Malachi 3:6: “For I, the LORD, do not change.” • Hebrews 13:8: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • 2 Corinthians 1:20: “For all the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” The scene in Numbers 23:18 sets the stage for a declaration that still steadies hearts: God’s nature never shifts, so His people can live each day in unshakeable trust. |
    |