Even without a talking donkey, this passage rocks (Number 23-24). While the Hebrews fade into the background of the story, their enemy Balak comes front and center. And he is distressed. Why wouldn’t he be? The Hebrews that are encamped nearby pose a threat to him and his kingdom, and clearly they are far too numerous for him to defeat on his own. What’s godless man to do? As we see in chapter 22, Balak turns in desperation to Balaam, a diviner who converses with God. Thinking that Balaam will bestow a curse on the Hebrews that will ensure his victory, Balak has certainly got another thing coming.
I think that the reason I love this passage is that Balak and Balaam are as real today as they ever were. Balak is smart enough to know that the situation he faces calls for extraordinary measures; however, he places his faith (or rather, his superstition) in a mere mortal, Balaam. Have you ever encountered someone like this -- who has the sense to seek divine help but is ignorant of the One whose help he should be seeking? And while Balak falsely believes that Balaam possesses the authority to bless or curse whom he chooses, Balaam (after some stern reproach by God) can only utter God’s truth and offer blessing upon the Hebrew people. Balaam interests me because he has knowledge of the Lord and is conversant with Him; however, as a diviner, it’s not clear that he has surrendered himself solely to God. Have you ever encountered someone like this – who has an intellectual understanding of God but fails to yield his heart to Him?
Up until 24:11, I almost feel sorry for Balak. But after three prophesies he still fails to acknowledge the Lord’s sovereignty and (foolishly) rebukes Balak for obeying the Lord. After reading that I just shook my head and thought: That’s it, dude. You’re toast!
As Christians we are promised to encounter many challenges and challengers. It’s important for us to know that despite appearances, our enemy often hides trembling behind a façade of strength. But we can take heart in the knowledge that our victory in Christ is as assured to us as the Hebrews’ victory over the Midianites. So let’s press on by loving our enemies as Jesus commands, winning victories for His kingdom, and praising God all along the way.
Rock on!
Chad Searcy
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Chad, great to have you doing some of the teaching, from afar no less!!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the lesson, and it reminds me that in such a fallen world, so many people adhere to the "keep your friends close and your enemies closer" passive-aggressive approach.
Thanks be to God for our Bible(Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth), because my way of dealing with my enemies would be very sinful, and would negate my Christian witnessing entirely.
**The instructions given by Jesus are completely foreign to my natural reaction(s) to trials, the enemy, and life's struggles.
**I am lost without my Savior!!
Thanks brother Chad!!
Peace and love! Romans 6:22,23