What is the meaning of Joshua 24:10? But I would not listen to Balaam When Israel camped on the plains of Moab, Balak hired Balaam to curse them (Numbers 22–24). Balaam’s reputation suggested he could sway heaven, yet the LORD declares in Joshua 24:10 that He “would not listen to Balaam.” • God shows absolute sovereignty; no enchantment or human scheme can override His covenant promises (Numbers 23:8; Romans 8:31). • The refusal underscores divine faithfulness: what God has blessed cannot be reversed (Numbers 23:19–20; Malachi 3:6). • The statement also serves as a warning to future generations: trust the LORD rather than fear occult opposition (Psalm 27:1; 1 John 4:4). So he blessed you again and again Kept from cursing, Balaam ended up pronouncing four oracles of blessing (Numbers 23:7–10; 23:18–24; 24:3–9; 24:15–19). The verse highlights repeated favor: • Identity: Israel is “a people dwelling alone” (Numbers 23:9)―set apart for God (Exodus 19:5–6). • Protection: “No misfortune is seen in Jacob” (Numbers 23:21)―divine shielding echoed in Psalm 121:7–8. • Prosperity: “How beautiful are your tents, O Jacob!” (Numbers 24:5)―anticipated abundance (Deuteronomy 8:7–10). • Victory and a coming King: “A star will come out of Jacob” (Numbers 24:17)―pointing to Messiah and ultimate triumph (Matthew 2:2; Revelation 22:16). Deuteronomy 23:5 and Nehemiah 13:2 both look back on this moment, marveling that the LORD “turned the curse into a blessing.” And I delivered you from his hand The final clause moves from spiritual to physical rescue. God not only blocked Balaam’s words; He nullified the entire threat. • Israel passed safely through Moab, then crossed the Jordan (Joshua 3–4). • Subsequent victories—Jericho (Joshua 6) and Ai (Joshua 8)—prove the completeness of the deliverance. • Later writers see a pattern: “He saved them from the hand of the one who hated them” (Psalm 106:10) and “The LORD your God is the One who goes with you to fight for you” (Deuteronomy 20:4). The phrase reassures believers that deliverance is both immediate and enduring (2 Timothy 4:18). summary Joshua 24:10 recalls a pivotal moment where God overrode Balaam’s intended curse, multiplied blessings, and decisively rescued Israel. The verse teaches that the LORD’s sovereignty, covenant faithfulness, and saving power stand unchallenged—encouraging every generation to rest in His unbreakable promises. |
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