Definition: And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, [and] go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Numbers 22:20. It’s a really interesting and dramatic passage about God’s power and a man’s obedience (or lack thereof). Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Story: God is looking for someone to lead a group of Israelite soldiers away from their camp at night. Balaam, a spiritual leader, is standing there. God then tells him, “If you were to go with them, you would do this.” What’s Happening – It's About Obedience: God’s Power: The verse highlights God’s absolute power and authority. He’s not just giving Balaam a command; he’s asserting that His will is supreme. A Test of Obedience: Balaam was a respected figure, so this wasn't just a simple request. It’s a test – a challenge to see if he would be willing to follow God’s instructions, even when it’s difficult or uncomfortable. The Promise: The crucial part is the promise that God will tell him what to do. It’s not about Balaam just doing whatever God says; it's about understanding and following those instructions. What Does "And yet the word which I shall say unto thee" Mean? This is a clever phrase that gets to the heart of it. It means: “But you will hear what I say.” It’s a command, but it's also a message – a specific instruction. In essence: God wants Balaam to listen to Him and follow His instructions, even if those instructions are difficult or inconvenient. Why is this significant? This story is often interpreted as a symbol of obedience to God’s will. It demonstrates that true faith isn't just about believing something; it’s about doing what God commands. It's also a reminder that God can be very powerful and might not always give us the easiest path. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism of this story? Answer any specific questions you have about it?