In today’s post, we delve into the Book of Numbers chapter 23, and examine its themes and messages. This insightful chapter tells the story of a powerful prophecy from Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, who was summoned by King Balak to curse the Israelites. Using the New King James Version (NKJV) Audio Bible, we will narrate the events and lessons from this intriguing section of the Bible. So grab a cup of coffee and a comfortable seat, as we explore the Book of Numbers chapter 23 together.

Exploring the Book of Numbers Chapter 23: A Narration from the New King James Version (NKJV) – Audio Bible

Introduction

The Book of Numbers is the fourth book of the Old Testament and the Hebrew Bible. It is a narration of the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the plains of Moab, which is on the border of the Promised Land. It is a story of God’s covenant with his people and their constant struggle to keep it. In chapter 23 of the Book of Numbers, we see a narration of Balaam and Balak’s encounter.

Balaam and Balak’s Encounter

Balaam was a diviner from Pethor, which is near the River Euphrates. Balak, the king of Moab, heard of the Israelites’ arrival and was frightened by their numbers. He called for Balaam to curse the Israelites, hoping that God would then turn from them and allow the Moabites to defeat them.

Balaam asked Balak to build seven altars and prepare seven bulls and seven rams. He then told Balak that he would speak to the Lord and relay the message to him.

Balaam saw a people dwelling alone and not reckoning themselves among the nations. He then blessed the Israelites and said, “How can I curse those whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce those whom the Lord has not denounced?” (Numbers 23:8, NKJV).

Balaam Blesses the Israelites

Balak was not happy with Balaam’s response, so he took him to a different place, and Balaam asked for seven altars and seven animals again. Balaam said that God had commanded him to bless the Israelites and that he cannot reverse it.

Balaam then gave a prophecy and said, “God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? Behold, I have received a command to bless; He has blessed, and I cannot reverse it” (Numbers 23:19-20, NKJV).

Balak Asks Balaam to Curse Israelites

Balak asked Balaam to curse the Israelites once more, but Balaam refused. He explained that he could only say what God had instructed him to say. Balak and Balaam then offered a bull and a ram on every altar.

Conclusion

The story of Balaam and Balak is a reminder that God is sovereign and cannot be manipulated. He blesses whom he chooses to bless and curses whom he chooses to curse. The story also reminds us to trust in God’s plan rather than our own. We must be careful not to allow fear or the desire for power to lead us away from God’s will. Let us always seek to serve Him and trust in His promises, for they are true and sure.