Numbers 22:41–23:12, May 15, 2025 (Thursday)

Numbers 23:12 (NIV)Balaam answered, “Must I not speak what the Lord puts in my mouth?”

Summary of the Passage

King Balak of Moab takes the diviner Balaam to a high place where he can see the camp of the Israelites. There, they build seven altars and offer a bull and a ram on each one to prepare for cursing Israel. Balaam goes off alone to receive God’s guidance, and the Lord appears to him. God commands Balaam not to curse Israel but to speak only what He tells him.

Balaam returns to Balak and delivers the first message from God. Contrary to Balak’s expectations, it is not a curse, but a blessing. Balaam declares that Israel is a nation blessed by God and that he cannot curse them.

Reflection

This peculiar story reveals surprising twists and shows that God's will is greater than human desire. Sometimes, we hold on so tightly to what we want, as though that desire is our life’s sole purpose. But beyond our effort and intention, the real question is: Are we truly prepared to do that work?

It’s not always that “this must not be God’s will,” but rather, it might be a matter of timing, preparation, or process. How do we discern God's will? Balaam's misplaced intent unexpectedly turns into a blessing over Israel. In the same way, when we find ourselves going in a direction that suddenly shifts, it may be God revealing a new path.

At my elementary school reunion, my friends were surprised to hear that I became a pastor—because no one saw it coming. And when I began English ministry, some people were amazed to see the church growing. Often, God’s will is revealed in the things that defy our assumptions and judgments.

A Real-Life Moment

Early this morning, I received a message from the attorney who works on behalf of our church. The opposing party sent a letter requesting a settlement and expressed their intent to purchase the church building at a higher price. However, the core issue hasn’t changed—they still ask for a six-month escrow period to obtain a childcare permit. It seems they still don't fully understand what the real issue is. Perhaps they’ve been chasing the wrong things, and now that the situation has become disadvantageous for them, they’ve decided to reach out.

I plan to organize the letter and share it with the church leadership team. Thankfully, it seems they’ve acknowledged their wrongdoing in some way, which makes this morning feel a bit lighter. I will continue to pray, discuss deeply, and share with the community once decisions are made.

Intercessory Prayer Requests

• On May 18, we will depart for our Türkiye-Greece Holy Land pilgrimage. I, the lead pastor, will be accompanying, guiding, and preparing for the journey. Please pray for us.

• This Saturday is the Missions Walk-a-thon. I hope we can walk together and enjoy lunch afterward. The walking distance is not long, and it will be a light and pleasant outing.