Numbers 24:10a Then Balak’s anger burned against Balaam….
Balak wanted to curse the Israelites because he was afraid they would take over his land. Because he was afraid, he sought to control the situation, so he hired Balaam to curse the Israelites. At this point in Numbers 24, he had gone to tremendous expense (21 bulls and 21 rams) with nothing to show for his efforts. He knew the LORD was with the Israelites, he knew his efforts were defeated, and he “went on his way.”
Numbers 24:10b …He struck his hands together and said to him, “I summoned you to curse my enemies, but you have blessed them three times.”
These are definitely uncertain times in which we are living. There is much confusion and fear. The lesson I want to take from Balak and Balaam, from this section of Numbers, is NOT to allow my fear to make me try to take matters into my own hands in a vain attempt to exert control over a situation that brings me fear. These two have shown that doesn’t end well, and I know without a doubt Who is in control.
Numbers 24:11 “Now leave at once and go home! I said I would reward you handsomely, but the LORD has kept you from being rewarded.”
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for lessons that are timely and directly applicable to my life. Thank You that You are loving and merciful, sovereign and in control. You are still on Your throne, Lord. Help me to trust You, to seek You, and not to be afraid. Draw me closer. Amen.
Numbers 24:25 Then Balaam got up and returned home, and Balak went his own way.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.