Speak Life

Read This Week: Numbers 24

Now, when Balaam saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, he did not resort to divination as at other times, but turned his face toward the wilderness. When Balaam looked out and saw Israel encamped tribe by tribe, the Spirit of God came on him, and he spoke his message. – Numbers 24:1-3 NIV

The narrative around Balaam continues in Numbers 24 and remains compelling, prompting us again to reflect on our own life with God. This is a man hired to curse who ends up blessing instead. As we’ve learned, Balaam had been summoned by a king to speak harm over Israel, but he finds himself unable to do anything but speak what God puts in his mouth.

This section shows that purpose, truth, and blessing are determined by someone higher than us, not by our agendas. It explores the conflict between our intentions and true obedience, highlighting our tendency to seek preferred outcomes rather than submit to what is right and what the Lord desires.

Alignment is so important in this passage. Balaam’s story keeps revealing a divided heart. He is drawn by the promise of reward and recognition, yet confronted with the reality that he cannot manipulate the truth for personal gain. We face similar pressures. Whether in business decisions, relationships, family, or leadership moments, there are opportunities to bend the narrative, protect our image, or pursue outcomes that benefit us but compromise our integrity. But the Scriptures challenge us to live in alignment, where our words and actions reflect truth rather than convenience. When we are in step with God, we become trustworthy and grounded, not easily swayed by external incentives.

Another thing we see here is the power of our words and messages. Balaam expects to curse, but instead blesses and prophesies. Our communication in everyday life has tremendous weight. They build up or tear down, clarify or confuse, encourage or demoralize. In our leadership and daily walk, our speech shapes situations. We can either be led by the Spirit to speak life into those we encounter or contribute to negativity and issues. This passage urges us to pause and root our words in God’s truth and purpose.

There is also something to learn about life’s inevitability and our humility. What is meant to be cannot easily be undone by opposition. Despite efforts to curse Israel, blessing wins. Purpose remains resilient in our lives, even when others or we try to derail it. People may oppose us, but when we align with what is right, we gain assurance and faith, not arrogance and pride. Running after control is unnecessary; faithfulness brings better outcomes than human manipulation.

Balaam’s story reminds us to be humble and that we are not the final authority over truth or outcomes. In a culture that values control and personal branding, this passage calls us to surrender, listen carefully, seek wisdom, speak life into situations, and adjust when misaligned. Influence is ours, but control is not, and that brings peace.