Lesson 69: Numbers 23:19
Lesson 69: Numbers 23:19
Numbers 23:19
The Blueprint — The Verse
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?
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
Balaam was hired to curse Israel as they camped on Moab's border during their wilderness journey. Balak king of Moab feared Israel's numbers and sought supernatural advantage through a renowned seer.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Though Balaam intended to curse Israel for payment, God put blessings in his mouth. This declaration affirms that God's word to bless his people is reliable unlike human fickleness or political manipulation.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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Numbers 23:18
He took up his parable, and said, “Rise up, Balak, and hear! Listen to me, you son of Zippor.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (Numbers 23:18) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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Numbers 23:20
Behold, I have received a command to bless. He has blessed, and I can’t reverse it.
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Read the verse immediately after this lesson (Numbers 23:20) to continue the passage.
Discussion
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Why is God's unchanging nature good news for his people?
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What promises of God do you need to hold onto?
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How does human inconsistency contrast with God's faithfulness?
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