Numbers 23 Commentary
The king of Moab (Balak) builds three sets of altars at three different locations, hoping Balaam will curse Israel. Instead, Balaam pronounces a blessing on the nation of Israel.
Like a donkey, Balaam is simply a conduit of God’s message. He cannot say anything else.
The first set of seven altars are erected at Bamoth Baal. From there, Balaam can see part of the Israelites down the valley (Chapter 22). The first prophecy or oracle comes from this place: “How can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce those whom the Lord has not denounced?” Verse 8.
Having failed to secure a curse on Israel, Balak shifts camp. Perhaps the results would be different from a different location. Another set of seven altars is set up. From here, Balaam gives us his second prophecy: “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” Verse 19.
It is from the mouth of Balaam that we hear these great declarations concerning the character of God.
It is difficult to guess what this incident meant to Israel then. But for Israel shortly after this, and for us today, we can look back and appreciate the LORD’s tender-loving watch over Israel.
The LORD using a donkey and a false prophet to speak is indicative of Israel’s failure. It is Israel that should have stood up to make these declarations about a God they had experienced in person.
It is even more damning of Israel that a pagan prophet should be wishing to have a life and privileges that Israel hardly appreciated.
Verses 19 to 24 contain some very deep declarations the saint today needs to reflect on regularly.
There is no witchcraft against Israel. There is no misfortune against Israel…these are great foundational statements concerning the saint. Israel stood protected from witchcraft.
The LORD was busy at work on the mountain, contending with Balak and directing the false prophet Balaam…even making the donkey speak! May the LORD contend with your enemies today!
Angry Balak cannot stand this anymore. He orders Balaam to neither curse nor bless Israel. The project has failed. But we still have another location and another set of seven altars. This takes us into chapter 24.
We can underline a few thoughts. Israel has perfected the art of complaining. They feel God shouldn’t have taken them out of Egypt! They feel small, like grasshoppers. Their view of themselves is terrible!
But others consider them blessed. Indeed, they are blessed. Others want to take their place. They are admired by Balaam. They are feared and respected by Balak. The saint must say and think the correct and factual things about themselves. Don’t let lies define your speech and the way you view your life.
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