Daily EncouragementSample

These are inspired words, whatever we may think of the strange character of Balaam. G. J. Wenham comments that, “throughout the Bible, prophecy and other ecstatic spiritual gifts are regarded as signs of inspiration, but not necessarily of holiness or of a right standing with God.”

The powerful reality of sorcery, divination and the like is evident everywhere. It is not confined to pagan tribes in remote jungles. The paraphernalia of witchcraft is on sale in London and covens of witches meet in many western countries. The implacable opposition of God’s word to all such evil still stands.

This passage in Numbers vividly illustrates the truth that sorcery and all kinds of similar practices are ultimately powerless against God’s people. In the face of a redeemed people of whom it can be said, “The Lord their God is with them; the shout of the King is among them” (Num. 23:12), Balaam and his ilk “resort to sorcery” in vain (Num. 24:1). The ultimate secret of deliverance from sorcery and divination, as well as from every evil spirit, is found in the words: “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).