https://esv.literalword.com/?q=Numbers+23
Observations from today’s readings and today’s S-WOD, Wednesday, 9 April 2025:
Numbers 23:5 – And the Lord put a word in Balaam’s mouth.
Balaam’s job was to proclaim God’s word, not his own thoughts or opinions. The same applies to us today.
Numbers 23:9, 24 – Behold him; behold, a people dwelling alone, and not counting itself among the nations…! Behold, a people! As a lioness it rises up and as a lion it lifts itself; it does not lie down until it has devoured the prey and drunk the blood of the slain. (Numbers 23:9, 24)
God’s people are a nation among the nations. We are to be “One nation, under God, indivisible.” The mark of God’s people is holy obedience to God in love and perfect unity in Christ which is the visible evidence to the world that Jesus is Lord, and we are truly His people. Jesus’ prayer to the Father on our behalf before enduring the Cross was this – “The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.” (John 17:22-23) When people see your life in relationship with your church body, do they see the unmistakable power of God at work?
No nation can overcome the Kingdom of God. We are intended to live victoriously and thrive, not just survive. “And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion (Genesis 1:28).”
Numbers 23:11, 12 – And Balak said to Balaam, “What have you done to me? I took you to curse my enemies, and behold, you have done nothing but bless them.” And he answered and said, “Must I not take care to speak what the Lord puts in my mouth?”
Balak wanted Balaam to support his interests, but Balaam was compelled to represent God. As am ambassador for Christ, for whom are you communicating, and whose interests are you serving?
“Must I not take care to speak what the Lord puts in my mouth?” This is perhaps one of the most important take-aways from today’s readings – We must only say what God would say in every situation and relationship, period. Even the words we say to ourselves should only be the word of God. In fact, since you talk with yourself more than you talk with anyone else, and since you are your most influential theologian, this might be the most important place you need to watch your words. Words are powerful, more powerful than we fully understand. They change the climate and shape our attitudes, other people, and situations. Jesus, our perfect example, said, “I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me…. The Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment—what to say and what to speak. And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me.” (John 8:28; 12:49-50) Practice only speaking the word of God (in your own words within the context of your current situation) today. If you don’t know what God would say in the moment, say nothing; rather pray silently until God’s word comes to you. People talk too much anyway, so your quiet contemplation before speaking will be appreciated.
Numbers 23:19 – God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind.
This verse is a powerful anchor of trust. It reminds us that God is perfectly faithful. He doesn’t say one thing and do another. His words are trustworthy, His promises sure. When He speaks blessing, no curse can override it. This teaches us to anchor our faith in His character, not our circumstances. Trust God’s Word more than your emotions or the noise of the world. His promises stand, no matter what.
Numbers 23:20 — God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind.
Balak hires Balaam to curse Israel, but every time Balaam opens his mouth, blessings come out instead. No one can counter God’s sovereign protection over His people. Even when enemies conspire against them, God turns curses into blessings. It’s a reminder that no human manipulation, opposition, or spiritual attack can undo what God has decreed for His children. Walk in confidence. If God is for you, no one can successfully be against you (Romans 8:31). Do you have the faith to believe that the “bad” things which are happening to you are really God’s best for you, even though you don’t feel that way and nothing seems to make sense to you? You are the precious beloved child of the Sovereign, Almighty God who loves you so much He already gave you His Son? Would He neglect you now?
Numbers 23:21 — He has not beheld misfortune in Jacob, nor has he seen trouble in Israel. The Lord their God is with them, and the shout of a king is among them.
We live by God’s grace. He is faithful to bless—not because we have earned it, but because He has chosen us and has committed Himself to us. God’s favor isn’t about flawless behavior—it’s about relationship, covenant, and grace. We don’t earn it; we walk in it, faithfully seeking to grow to be like Him in it. Grace gives us the freedom to become like Jesus until we become one with Jesus.
Numbers 23:27 – And Balak said to Balaam, “Come now, I will take you to another place. Perhaps it will please God that you may curse them for me from there.”
Changing your environment or your approach does not change God’s will for you. God’s plan stands. Denying God’s will is futile. Often people are seeking change, a different spouse, a different church, a different job, a different neighborhood, etc., because they don’t like the one God intentionally gave them to conform them to Christlikeness. So, they decide to drop out of the schoolhouse for Christlike character development rather than graduate. Remember, you can leave your current situation, but you will take yourself with you, and God is going to continue to work on your character with new challenges. If you are a child of God, you are already in the place in which God wants you to serve Him and glorify Him. Changing your venue doesn’t change your vocation to be Jesus’ image bearer.
“Cross” Fit S-WOD (Spiritual Workout of the Day) – 9 April 2025: Only speak what God has spoken. If Jesus Himself didn’t speak on His own authority but only what the Father gave Him, how much more should we? Today, make it your goal to filter your thoughts and words through God’s truth.
Before you speak to others or to yourself, ask: “Is this what God says? Does this agree with Scripture? Am I echoing faith, hope, and truth—or fear, doubt, and lies?” For example: If you’re tempted to say, “I’ll never change,” stop—and replace it with “He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6). If someone is discouraged, instead of clichés or personal advice, speak a Scripture-based encouragement like “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18).
Write down three things you’ve been saying to yourself that aren’t aligned with Scripture. Then, find a verse that speaks God’s truth in each area—and begin speaking that instead.
Defenders Bible Reading Plan 