How does Numbers 23:30 illustrate the importance of preparation in spiritual matters? Setting the scene Balak longs for a curse against Israel, so he follows Balaam’s detailed instructions. Before Balaam will speak further, twelve animals must be brought, seven altars built, and the sacrifices offered. Only then does Balaam seek the Lord again (24:1). Scripture records the step-by-step obedience in a single line: “Balak did as Balaam had said, and offered a bull and a ram on each altar” (Numbers 23:30). The verse in focus “Balak did as Balaam had said, and offered a bull and a ram on each altar.” One simple sentence captures hours of deliberate activity. Nothing spontaneous, hurried, or careless—only intentional preparation. Principle of deliberate preparation • Serious spiritual business requires costly, concrete steps. Balak brings prime livestock, not leftovers (cp. Leviticus 1:3). • The altars are built before the encounter, not during it. Order precedes revelation (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Preparation involves obedience to revealed instruction. Balak follows Balaam’s word precisely; believers follow God’s Word precisely (Psalm 119:4). • Sacrifice readies the heart. Though Balak’s motives are wrong, the pattern still teaches: approach God on His terms, not ours (Hebrews 12:28-29). Applying the lesson today 1. Ready your environment • Set apart a quiet place and time (Mark 1:35). • Remove distractions—digital, mental, and moral (James 4:8). 2. Ready your heart • Confess sin and receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Bring a willing, obedient spirit (Isaiah 1:19). 3. Ready your resources • Open Bible, notebook, and pen at hand (Proverbs 4:20-22). • Gather with other believers when appropriate; corporate altars matter too (Hebrews 10:24-25). 4. Expect God to speak • Balaam “did not turn as at other times to seek omens, but he set his face toward the wilderness” (Numbers 24:1). The prepared setting became the platform for God’s unfiltered word. • Similarly, prepared hearts hear clearly (Luke 8:15). Supporting Scripture echoes • Proverbs 24:27 — “Complete your outdoor work and prepare your field; after that, you may build your house.” Preparation precedes accomplishment. • Psalm 50:14 — “Sacrifice a thank offering to God and fulfill your vows to the Most High.” Proper offerings first, then divine response. • 1 Peter 1:13 — “Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace to be brought to you.” Mental and spiritual readiness go hand in hand. • 2 Timothy 2:15 — “Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.” Preparation safeguards accuracy. • Matthew 25:10 — The wise virgins entered the wedding because they had oil in advance; preparation opened the door. Takeaway reflections • Preparation is not optional decoration; it is the foundation on which God’s dealings rest. • Altars first, answers second. • What we do before we seek the Lord often determines what we hear when we seek Him. |
    |