PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Numbers 23-24
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“I have received a command to bless; he has blessed, and I cannot change it.” (Numbers 23:20)
There is huge encouragement in these words, for they apply today as well.
God has blessed us through Jesus, the promised ruler from Jacob (Numbers 24:17).
We are forgiven, we are set free, we are filled with God’s Spirit.
“If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
There are many things that seem to be against us in this life.
We still sin, we are still tempted, we still suffer, we still die.
The world around us tempts and troubles us throughout our lives.
But like Israel, we are on a journey through a wilderness to a place of rest.
We are led by the fire (Spirit) of God and Jesus, leading us home.
Satan tries to discourage and distract us, but cannot separate us from God’s love.
I find myself forgetting this, and thinking that the negative stuff is greater than God.
I sometimes give in to discouragement, and find myself getting stuck in the wilderness.
I need to remind myself again and again: Nothing can separate me from God’s blessing.
God has blessed, and no one can change it!
PRAYER
Lord, there are many ‘nothings’ that try to hinder God’s blessing. Use this Balaam story to help me cling to the certainty of your blessing.
“Must I not speak what the Lord puts in my mouth?” It was not possible for Balaam to curse Israel – God’s chosen people. He had to speak the truth. Invoking the name of God to curse – did not work. Invoking the name of something else – though it may sound good – would not have authority and Balak knew that. God cannot be manipulated – God is sovereign. It is not that I seek to have God on my side – rather is me seeking to be on God’s side – His team – His vision – His mission. Lord, may I seek you and seek to do your will – may I speak the words that you put in my heart/mouth!
I too must do what the Lord says.
I need His presence ever hour. I need to be Spirit led at all times so that I do His will at all times. I too am on my pilgrim’s progress depending on the Lord to lead and guide me through the wilderness, focusing on Him in my words and deeds. Not my will but Your will be done each day Lord. Lead me and guide me this day and always.
1 I need Thee ev’ry hour,
Most gracious Lord;
No tender voice like Thine
Can peace afford.
Refrain:
I need Thee, oh, I need Thee;
Ev’ry hour I need Thee;
Oh, bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee.
2 I need Thee ev’ry hour,
Stay Thou nearby;
Temptations lose their pow’r
When Thou art nigh. [Refrain]
3 I need Thee ev’ry hour,
In joy or pain;
Come quickly and abide,
Or life is vain. [Refrain]
4 I need Thee ev’ry hour,
Teach me Thy will;
And Thy rich promises
In me fulfill. [Refrain]