Scripture Union Daily Guide

Tuesday, March 11th, 2025.

Day 69.

Text: Numbers 22:1-20.

Topic: Perfect versus Permissive will.

Questions: 1 and 2.

Click the link to answer questions.

PERFECT VERSUS PERMISSIVE WILL.

Moab was terrified because of the Israelites. Notice the fruitless journey on which the King of Moab embarked as a result (vs.2-6). How often do we succumb to fear when there is no cause for it? Unknown to Balak, God had expressly instructed Moses not to attack Moab, (Deuteronomy 2:9).
These were kith and kin to the Israelites, being the descendants of Lot by his first daughter.
Balaam was not a true prophet of God (See Joshua 13:22; 2 Peter 2:15-16).
God however decided to speak to him and through him, just as He is able to use any unbeliever today to accomplish His divine purposes.
Notice the reason God refused Balaam to curse the Israelites (v, 12).
Balaam’s refusal to come with Balak’s emissaries prompted Balak to send a more high-powered delegation with a promise of more handsome pay. Balaam appears to be more interested in the material gain, hence his second enquiry from God.

Notice God’s response (v.20, cp v. 12). What happened to him later shows clearly that this was God’s permissive will.
When God’s word says, ‘No’, we have no reason to start praying about such matter, hoping He will change His mind. We should promptly obey God rather than attempt to force His hand (see Numbers 23:19-20).

PRAYER: Lord please teach me always to have a listening ear and an obedient heart.

Break down of the guide:

The King of Moab, Balak, was terrified of the Israelites and embarked on a fruitless journey to curse them, demonstrating how fear can lead to unnecessary actions. Despite not being a true prophet, God spoke to Balaam and used him to accomplish His purposes, showing that God can use anyone to fulfill His plans. Balaam’s initial refusal to curse the Israelites was overridden by his desire for material gain, leading him to seek God’s permission again, which was granted as part of God’s permissive will. This story highlights the importance of promptly obeying God’s will, rather than trying to force His hand or change His mind.

Prayer for Tuesday:

PRAISE GOD FOR THE GRACE THAT MADE YOU A MEMBER OF THE CHURCH OF CHRIST. PRAY FOR THE VARIOUS CHURCH LEADERS, ESPECIALLY THOSE YOU KNOW.