Numbers 24
-Balaam sees that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, so “he
did not go as at other times to seek omens, but he set his face toward the
wilderness (Numbers 24:1).” As Balaam lifted up his eyes he saw Israel camping
by tribe, and the Spirit of the LORD came upon him to prophecy. His oracle
included phrases like “the man whose eye is opened,” “of him who hears the
words of God,” “who sees the vision of the Almighty,” and “falling down, yet
having his eyes uncovered (Numbers 24:3-4).” He blesses Israel from the top of Peor
in eloquent language, and speaks the LORD’s blessing upon them. He claims by
the end of this first segment, “Blessed is everyone who blesses you (Israel),
and cursed is everyone who curses you (Numbers 24:5-9).” This made Balak’s
anger burn against the man that he had brought in to curse his enemies. Three
times now Balaam had blessed the chosen people of Israel. Balak warned the
sorcerer to flee his presence, and he scolded him saying that he would not
receive his honor. That was fine with Balaam. He reiterated his previous
statements about speaking only the words God had given him, either good or bad
(Numbers 24:10-13). Before he went back to his people, Balaam offered one more
oracle for what would occur in future days. He repeated his phrases about this
being a true vision and revelation from God. Then, he saw what appears to be
the Messiah. Prophetically he proclaims, “I see Him, but not now; I behold Him,
but not near; a Star shall come forth from Jacob, a Scepter shall rise from
Israel… (Numbers 24:14-17a).” This One shall crush through the forehead of
Moab, and tear down all the sons of Seth (tumult). Edom will be His possession
along with Seir. One from Jacob will have dominion and destroy the remnant from
the city. Amalek is prophesied for destruction. Kain and the Kenite will be
consumed. Anyone God desires to destroy, He will destroy by His ordination.
Ships shall come from the coast of Kittim (west coast of modern day Cyprus) and
afflict Asshur and Eber bringing them to destruction (Numbers 17b-24). “Then
Balaam arose and departed and returned to his place, and Balak also went his
way (Numbers 24:25).”
-*Application* The sovereignty of God should be our
predominate meditation after studying a passage like this. He holds the
kingdoms in His dominant Hands (Psalms 24:1). Our job is to fit into His plans
and go His way. Balaam was not a perfect person, but he definitely got some
things right here in this chapter of Scripture. He could not be bought, and he
blessed God’s people, Israel. We too need to open our eyes and ears to see and
hear the things of God in this present age. See the vision that God is giving
you in His truth. Fall down and worship Him, and then see how He will uncover
the knowledge of the Holy and make your paths straight.
Verses to Memorize: Numbers
24:9, 17
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