If God promised, He will fulfill
Numbers 23:19
God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?
Biblical Context
This verse is part of the book of Numbers, which narrates the journey of the people of Israel through the desert. In this passage, King Balak of Moab has hired a prophet named Balaam to curse Israel. However, every time Balaam prepares to curse, the Spirit of God fills him, and instead of cursing, he can only pronounce blessings. This verse is part of the second blessing Balaam proclaims, where he explains to Balak why it is impossible to curse a people who have been blessed by a perfect God.
Teaching
It's a powerful statement about the unchanging nature of God. The verse establishes a fundamental contrast between God and human beings. People lie, regret their decisions, and often fail to keep their promises. God, on the other hand, is perfect in His character and truthful in His word. If He has promised something, there is no doubt that He will fulfill it. His word is sure, and His will is firm.
Absolute Trust
It assures us that we can have complete confidence in every promise God has made. Whether it's the promise of salvation, provision, protection, or eternal life, it's not based on our ability to be good, but on the unchanging character of a God who cannot lie.
Foundation of Hope
In times of doubt or difficulty, this verse is a reminder that the believer's hope is not a mere illusion, but a solid certainty. Our hope rests on a God who never changes his mind and always carries out what he has spoken.
Irrevocable Pact
The verse is a seal of God's covenants with his children. He does not relent on his blessings, and his word is sufficient to guarantee that he will fulfill each of his promises.