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19/07/2023, WednesdayNumbers 23

Curse and Blessing

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Ps. Joseph Tang

Passage of the day

Click here to read Numbers 23

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In the Book of Numbers, it is mentioned that King Balak saw the Israelites as a threat to his throne. The Israelites had just defeated the Amorites and were on their way to the Promised Land of Canaan. For this reason, he planned to sabotage them.

King Balak was alarmed by their military success and concerned that the Israelites might attack his kingdom. To protect his territory, he started seeking for ways to harm them. He believed that if he hired the prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites, he could use supernatural force to stop or weaken them. The goal of the curse was to take away the Israelites' strength and divine protection.

But what does God's message in chapter 23 say?

In God's first message, Balaam was unable to curse Israel, saying, " How can I curse whom God has not cursed?How can I denounce whom the Lord has not denounced?" (Numbers 23:8). This shows that God's favour and protection came to Israel and that no curse could harm them.

In the second message, Balaam instead blessed Israel, saying, " Behold, I received a command to bless: he has blessed, and I cannot revoke it." (Numbers 23:20). This emphasizes God's unchanging nature and his faithful promises. His blessing in Israel is irrevocable.

Have you ever been perceived incorrectly? Accused? Or perhaps cursed? Feeling misunderstood, accused, or cursed can be hurtful and distressing. But the message in Numbers 23 offers solace, assuring us that God will not let curses fall on the innocent and that He rewards the righteous. We can take comfort in knowing that God sees our hearts and intentions, and He will always protect and stand by us in times of difficulty.

Pray : Dear Father,You know what's in our hearts and understand our intentions. We believe that you won't allow any curses to harm innocent people. Your love and protection embrace us, and it gives us comfort to know that you bless those who do right. When we face tough times, may we always find shelter in your caring arms, knowing that your blessings for us will never change. Help us to follow your path and seek your guidance in everything we do. Thank you for your love that never fails, and for sustaining us no matter what happens. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.