Numbers 23: You Cannot Curse What God Has Blessed

Key Verse: Numbers 23:8 

"How can I curse whom God has not cursed? How can I denounce whom the Lord has not denounced?"

Numbers 23 continues the story of Balaam and King Balak, showing how God’s sovereignty prevails over human schemes. Despite Balak’s attempts to have Israel cursed, God ensures that only blessings are spoken over His people.

This chapter reminds us that when God declares His favor over someone, no human effort can reverse it.

Balak’s Attempts to Manipulate God

King Balak was desperate to see Israel cursed. He took Balaam to various high places, hoping that a different location would change the outcome.

Three times, Balak tried to have Balaam curse Israel. Each time, Balaam spoke only what God allowed—and instead of cursing, he blessed them.

This shows that:

• Human efforts cannot override God’s will.

• No amount of manipulation can change God’s blessings.

• When God speaks, His word is final.

Balaam’s First Oracle: Israel’s Unique Favor

In his first prophecy, Balaam acknowledged that:

• God had set Israel apart.

• They were a people not counted among the nations.

• God’s blessing was upon them.

This reminds us that believers, like Israel, are set apart by God. As followers of Christ, we are called to live differently, reflecting His presence and purpose.

Balaam’s Second Oracle: God’s Unchanging Promise

Balak, frustrated, moved Balaam to another location, hoping for a different outcome. But Balaam declared one of the most powerful truths in Scripture:

• “God is not a man, that He should lie, or a son of man, that He should change His mind” (Numbers 23:19).

• “He has blessed, and I cannot revoke it” (Numbers 23:20).

This reminds us that:

• God’s promises do not change—His word is final.

• No enemy can undo what God has spoken.

• When God blesses His people, no curse can stand against them.

Balaam’s Third Oracle: Victory is Assured

By now, Balak was furious, but Balaam’s final prophecy went even further:

• God’s presence was with Israel.

• They would triumph over their enemies.

• No sorcery or divination could harm them.

This teaches us that:

• When we walk with God, we walk in victory.

• Spiritual attacks cannot overcome those who stand in God’s blessing.

• God’s protection is greater than any opposition.

Final Thought

Numbers 23 reminds us of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty:

• No one can curse what God has blessed.

• God’s promises do not change—what He has spoken, He will fulfill.

• Victory belongs to those who trust in the Lord.

Are you standing in the confidence of God’s promises, or are you fearing the words of others? If God has blessed you, nothing can stand against you. Trust in His word, and walk boldly in His favor.