Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
Numbers 22:35 (BSB)
But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, “Go with the men, but you are to speak only what I tell you.” So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“But the angel of the LORD said to Balaam, “Go with the men, but you are to speak only what I tell you.” So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.” — Numbers 22:35
Picture this: Balaam is caught in a moment of divine instruction. An angel is telling him, 'Go ahead, but remember, only speak what I tell you.' It’s like being handed a script for an important performance. You can feel the weight of responsibility here! Balaam is being reminded that his words carry power and that he needs to stay true to the message he's given. This isn’t just a casual conversation; it’s a call to be obedient and intentional with what he says.
The book of Numbers was written by Moses, a leader who experienced firsthand the ups and downs of guiding the Israelites. He included this detail about Balaam to show how even those who may seem far from God can still be part of His plan. Moses is sharing a story of obedience and the importance of listening to God, reminding people that God can speak through anyone, anywhere, at any time.
This was written during a time when the Israelites were wandering in the desert after escaping slavery in Egypt. They were facing uncertainty, and there were many nations around them that were hostile. Understanding this helps us see that Balaam’s journey wasn’t just a personal one; it was part of a larger picture where God was guiding His people and showing His power over other nations. It’s like being in a critical moment in history where every decision counts!
So why does this verse matter for you today? It reminds you that your words have weight. Just like Balaam, you may find yourself in situations where you need to speak, and what you say can impact others. This verse challenges you to think about how you communicate and encourages you to be mindful of the truth you share. Are you speaking from a place of honesty and integrity? This is a call to align your voice with what’s true and good.
Here’s a practical way to live out this verse this week: Before you speak in a group or share your thoughts, take a moment to pause and ask yourself, 'What truth do I want to communicate?' You might even want to write down a few key points that align with your values. This practice can help you be more intentional with your words, ensuring that what you say reflects honesty and clarity, just like Balaam needed to do.
Now, let's zoom out a bit. Before this moment, Balaam had been approached by Balak, the king of Moab, who wanted him to curse Israel. This verse comes right after Balaam has already wrestled with the idea of going to Balak. Here, the tension is building. Balaam knows he’s being sent to deliver a message, but the twist? He can’t just say whatever he wants; he’s under divine orders! This moment is crucial as it sets the stage for what Balaam will ultimately say when he meets Balak. It shifts the whole narrative from potential negativity to a powerful declaration of God's truth.
What does it mean for you to speak only what you believe is true? How can you make sure your words reflect that truth in your daily conversations?
Keep reading the full Numbers 22:35 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free