The first thing that happens is an evil (and not too bright) King Balak thinks he can override the will of God Almighty… never a good plan. In the process of bringing a guy named Balaam to come and curse God’s people, there is a talking donkey that proves itself wiser than his rider. But that’s just the beginning…
Balaam shows up, and the evil king Balak takes Balaam ‘up to the high place’ – this is an Old Testament shadow of a New Testament event. Remember when Satan takes Jesus to the high places to tempt the Son of God?
Three times Balak took Balaam to a high place and asked him to speak against God and His promises. Three times Balaam spoke only the words that were given him by the Lord. Balak was hoping for a curse that would thwart the mission of God’s people, and Balaam spoke blessings instead. Needless to say, the evil king was not amused…
In the New Testament, three times Satan tried to tempt Jesus to turn against God and His promises. Three times Jesus spoke only the Word of God in defense. Of course, since Jesus is the Word, whatever He spoke ultimately is the Word… however, the point is that He uses direct quotes from the Old Testament to deny Satan.
Is it just a coincidence that both events have the evil ruler bringing them to a high place to try and curse and deny the plans of God? Yeah, not likely….and it’s also not a coincidence that they both used the Words of God as their defense.
My favorite part of the story might be when Balaam goes even further than the three blessings - without Balak’s prompting - and prophecies about the coming King – our Lord Jesus!
“I see him, but not now;
I behold him, but not near.
A star will come out of Jacob;
a scepter will rise out of Israel.” (Numbers 24:17)
A shadow and prophecy of our Messiah, with a donkey thrown in for good measure – and people think the Bible is boring?
#LoveMatters