How does Numbers 23:4 demonstrate God's sovereignty in Balaam's encounter with Him? The Setting Numbers 23:4: “And God met with Balaam, and Balaam said to Him, ‘I have set up seven altars, and on each altar I have offered a bull and a ram.’” • Balaam is on the heights of Moab, hired by Balak to curse Israel (Numbers 22:1–6). • Seven altars, seven bulls, seven rams—Balaam’s attempt to secure divine favor through elaborate ritual. • Yet the verse begins not with Balaam’s sacrifice but with God’s initiative: “God met with Balaam.” Unmistakable Sovereignty Displayed • God initiates the encounter – Balaam does not summon God; God “met with” him. – Psalm 115:3: “Our God is in the heavens; He does whatever He pleases.” • God overrides pagan motives – Balaam aims to curse; God plans to bless (Numbers 23:8, 20). – Genesis 50:20 shows the pattern: human intent vs. divine intent. • God directs the message – Every oracle Balaam delivers begins with “The LORD put a word in Balaam’s mouth” (Numbers 23:5, 16). – Proverbs 16:1: “The reply of the tongue is from the LORD.” • God alone sets terms of access – Balaam’s costly offerings do not coerce God; the meeting happens solely because God chooses. – Isaiah 46:10–11: He accomplishes all His purpose without dependence on human schemes. Implications for Balaam • His prophetic gift is real, yet entirely governed by God (Numbers 24:2). • He learns he cannot say less or more than God allows (Numbers 22:38). • Even a celebrated seer must submit to the sovereign word. Implications for Israel • Reassurance: no curse can stand against a people God has blessed (Numbers 23:23). • Their security rests on God’s covenant sovereignty, not their own strength. Implications for Us • Comfort: God’s purposes prevail despite hostile intentions (Romans 8:31). • Caution: spiritual gifts or religious rituals never place God under obligation. • Confidence: the same sovereign God guides history and our personal lives (Ephesians 1:11). Takeaway Numbers 23:4 pictures a sovereign God who initiates, controls, and fulfills His will—even through reluctant, pagan instruments—reminding every generation that He reigns supreme over words, nations, and destinies. |
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