Numbers 23:19

Numbers 23:19 is a profound declaration of God's unchanging character, spoken by the prophet Balaam, who was compelled by God to bless Israel rather than curse them. This verse stands as a cornerstone affirming the divine attributes of truthfulness, faithfulness, and immutability. It contrasts God's nature sharply with that of fallible humanity.

Context

This powerful statement is uttered by Balaam, a diviner hired by Balak, the King of Moab, to pronounce a curse upon the Israelites as they journeyed towards the Promised Land. Despite Balak's repeated attempts to move Balaam to different locations hoping for a different outcome, God supernaturally intervened, placing words of blessing and prophecy into Balaam's mouth instead of curses. In this particular instance, Balak had taken Balaam to the top of Peor, overlooking the wilderness, yet Balaam again delivered a divine message, emphasizing God's steadfastness and the certainty of His purposes for Israel. This unexpected source of truth further underscores God's sovereignty and His unwavering commitment to His covenant promises.

Key Themes

• God's Immutability: The phrase "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent" highlights that God does not change His mind, His purpose, or His character like humans do. He is consistent and steadfast.
• Divine Truthfulness and Faithfulness: God does not lie. Every word He speaks is truth, and every promise He makes will be fulfilled. His integrity is absolute, providing a firm foundation for trust and faith.
• The Certainty of God's Word: The rhetorical questions, "hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" emphasize the absolute certainty of God's intentions and actions. What God declares, He performs. His word is not idle but carries ultimate authority and power.
• Contrast with Humanity: Unlike humans who are prone to lying, changing their minds due to weakness, regret, or deceit, God is perfect in His nature. This distinction assures us of His unwavering reliability.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "repent" in this verse is nacham (נחם). While it can mean "to be sorry" or "to grieve," in this context, it signifies "to change one's mind" or "to alter a purpose." God does not "repent" in the sense of regretting a decision or changing His plan due to error or unforeseen circumstances. His knowledge is perfect, and His will is eternal. The phrase "make it good" comes from the Hebrew qum (קום), meaning "to rise," "to stand," or "to establish," reinforcing the idea that God will firmly uphold and fulfill what He has spoken.

Related Scriptures

This powerful declaration about God's character resonates throughout Scripture, reinforcing the reliability of His promises and His unchanging nature. Similar affirmations can be found in other passages:

• 1 Samuel 15:29: "And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent."
• Malachi 3:6: "For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed."
• Titus 1:2: "...in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began."
• Hebrews 6:18: "...that by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation..."

Practical Application

Numbers 23:19 offers immense encouragement and a solid foundation for faith in the modern world. In a world full of broken promises and shifting truths, this verse reminds us that God's word is utterly dependable. We can confidently rely on His promises for salvation, guidance, provision, and future hope. It calls us to trust in His character, even when circumstances seem contradictory, knowing that His word will not return to Him void but will accomplish His perfect will. This truth provides peace and assurance for every believer.