Bible in 90 Days - Day 12

Today I read Numbers 22 through 32. I think the coolest story in this section is the story of Balaam. When the king of Moab sends messengers to Balaam and asks him to curse Israel, Balaam does the right thing. He prays to God and listens to God's advice, sending the messengers away.

Then the messengers return with an offer of more money, more prestige. Balaam prays to God and asks His guidance again. Because Balaam is obviously wanting to go, God allows him to leave with the messengers, though not without a confrontation on the journey.

In spite of Balaam going against God's ideal plan, God has the last word. When Balaam opens his mouth before the Israelites, he blesses them. Not only does Balaam bless the Israelites twice, he utters one of the earliest prophecies about the Messiah!

I shall see him, but not now:
I shall behold him, but not nigh:
there shall come a Star out of Jacob,
and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel...
Numbers 24:17.