How can we trust in God's promises as seen in Numbers 23:23? Setting the Scene “For there is no spell against Jacob, no divination against Israel; it will now be said of Jacob and Israel, ‘See what God has done!’” (Numbers 23:23) Balaam—hired to curse Israel—ends up proclaiming God’s unstoppable blessing. The verse captures a breathtaking reality: when God makes a promise, no human or demonic scheme can overturn it. Why This Single Verse Inspires Confidence • God overturns hostile intent – Balak wants Israel cursed; God turns the curse into a blessing. – The pattern repeats throughout Scripture (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28). • God exposes the impotence of every rival power – “No spell…no divination.” Supernatural evil exists, yet it is shackled before the sovereignty of God (Psalm 115:3; Colossians 2:15). • God publicizes His own faithfulness – “See what God has done!” His works are visible, measurable, and memorable (Psalm 111:2–4). Anchoring Trust in God’s Character 1. Unchanging Nature • “God is not a man, that He should lie” (Numbers 23:19). • Hebrews 13:8 reinforces: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” 2. Absolute Sovereignty • Isaiah 46:10—He declares “the end from the beginning.” • Proverbs 19:21—many plans, but the Lord’s purpose prevails. 3. Covenant Loyalty • Joshua 21:45—“Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed.” • 2 Corinthians 1:20—“For all the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” Practical Ways to Lean on These Promises Today • Remember specific acts of deliverance in your own life—journal them so you can later say, “See what God has done!” • Meditate on promise-anchored passages: – Isaiah 54:17; Psalm 91; John 10:27-29. – Let them shape your thinking more than headlines or feelings. • Speak God’s Word aloud when fear whispers. Balaam’s prophecy shows words carry weight; declare Scripture as both reminder and resistance (Ephesians 6:17). • Join with fellow believers who rehearse God’s faithfulness. Israel’s victories were celebrated corporately—so should ours (Hebrews 10:24-25). When Doubt Creeps In • Look back: God has already acted decisively at the cross and the empty tomb (Romans 8:32). • Look up: His throne is occupied; no crisis in heaven (Psalm 103:19). • Look forward: every promise culminates in His coming kingdom (Revelation 21:5). Key Takeaways • Numbers 23:23 proves God’s promises are curse-proof, spell-proof, and time-proof. • His unchanging character secures every word He speaks. • Trust grows as we rehearse His deeds, rest in His sovereignty, and rely on His unbreakable covenant. |