You Cannot Curse What God Has Blessed By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: “How shall I curse whom God has not cursed? And how shall I denounce whom the Lord has not denounced?” – Numbers 23:8 (NKJV)
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Introduction
In a time when spiritual manipulation, false prophecy, and religious compromise are widespread, the story of Balak and Balaam from Numbers 22–24 offers profound insight. It reveals how God's blessing upon His people is irreversible, how the covetous heart can lead to destruction, and how divine truth prevails over political and spiritual coercion.
This teaching explores the background of Balak's fear, Balaam's conflict, God's divine intervention, and the spiritual lessons we can draw in our modern faith walk. It is a call to trust in God's covering, resist spiritual compromise, and honor His voice above material temptation.
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God's People Are Divinely Protected
Balak, the king of Moab, saw Israel's victories and feared for his own nation's survival. Instead of seeking peace or understanding God’s plan, he turned to sorcery and manipulation. He attempted to curse God's people through Balaam—a prophet-for-hire.
However, God had already blessed Israel. No human decree, sorcerer, or king could undo what God had ordained. This truth is echoed in Balaam’s own words:
“God is not a man, that He should lie… He has blessed, and I cannot reverse it.” — Numbers 23:19–20
Lesson: When God has spoken a blessing over your life—no matter the schemes, the jealousies, the curses, or the demonic manipulations—they cannot succeed. The blessing of God is final and authoritative.
“No weapon formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue which rises against you in judgment You shall condemn.” — Isaiah 54:17
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The Temptation of Honor and Wealth
Balak promised Balaam riches and honor if he would curse Israel. Though Balaam initially declined, he invited the messengers to stay another night. This reveals a crack in his character—a heart secretly drawn to material gain.
“Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the word of the Lord my God.” — Numbers 22:18
While Balaam spoke as if he feared God, his actions revealed that he still hoped God might allow him to earn Balak's reward. His duplicity would later lead to disaster.
Lesson: Many today start as servants of God but end up being seduced by titles, influence, or financial offers. God calls us to integrity—where what we say with our mouths aligns with the motives of our hearts.
“You cannot serve both God and money.” — Matthew 6:24
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God Sees the Heart – Not Just the Words
Although Balaam obeyed outwardly, God saw the greed in his heart. That is why God sent the angel to oppose him on the way. Interestingly, his donkey saw the angel before Balaam did. The very beast under him was more spiritually aware than the prophet.
When Balaam beat the donkey, the donkey miraculously spoke and rebuked him. This humiliation was a divine act to show Balaam that his path was reckless and that God was displeased.
“Behold, I have come out to stand against you, because your way is perverse before Me.” — Numbers 22:32
Lesson: It is possible to be in ministry, have spiritual gifts, and yet walk in a way displeasing to God. True obedience is not in outward appearance but in inward submission. We must constantly check our motives.
“The Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7
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You Cannot Manipulate God's Word
Balaam tried to accommodate Balak’s request by going to different locations, hoping that maybe God would permit a curse if the setting changed. But no matter where he stood, God's word was the same: blessing, not cursing.
In all his three attempts, Balaam ended up prophesying the greatness and destiny of Israel. One of the most powerful declarations came in Numbers 24:17:
“I see Him, but not now; I behold Him, but not near; A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel…”
This was a messianic prophecy foretelling Christ Himself!
Lesson: God’s word is unchanging. His promises are eternal. No matter how the enemy tries to twist the narrative, the truth of God prevails.
“Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven.” — Psalm 119:89
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The Danger of Compromise
Although Balaam blessed Israel publicly, he later gave Moab a deadly suggestion. According to Revelation 2:14, Balaam taught Balak to cause Israel to stumble by sending Moabite women to seduce them into fornication and idol worship. This led to a plague and God’s judgment upon Israel.
“But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam…” — Revelation 2:14
Eventually, Balaam was killed when Israel fought against Midian (Numbers 31:8).
Lesson: Even partial obedience with a compromised heart leads to destruction. Balaam's end reminds us that no position, gift, or spiritual experience can save a person who continues in rebellion and manipulation.
“These people are blemishes at your love feasts… they have followed the way of Balaam son of Bezer, who loved the wages of wickedness.” — 2 Peter 2:15
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Summary
The story of Balak and Balaam is not just historical—it’s prophetic. It reveals:
• God's unwavering commitment to His people.
• The futility of cursing whom God has blessed.
• The consequences of mixing prophecy with greed.
• The importance of inner integrity over outward obedience.
Balaam had an opportunity to align fully with God, but his heart betrayed him. In contrast, Israel—though flawed—was preserved by divine covenant.
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Conclusion
In today’s world, where prophetic voices are increasingly influenced by money, power, and recognition, the Balaam spirit is alive. But God is raising up a remnant that cannot be bought, manipulated, or silenced—a people who stand on truth regardless of the cost.
Be like the donkey—spiritually sensitive, faithful, and obedient to God’s signals. Do not be like Balaam—outwardly obedient, but inwardly corrupt.
Guard your heart, honor the blessing of God on your life, and walk in holiness. Remember: you are blessed, and no curse can stand against what God has established.
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Call to Action
Are you tempted to compromise your integrity for material gain or acceptance? Do you sometimes find yourself negotiating between God’s will and worldly offers?
Take time today to pray and ask God to purify your motives. Let the fear of God be greater than the fear of men. Reject the spirit of Balaam in your life and commit to honoring God above all else.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties.” — Psalm 139:23
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Final Encouragement
You are not cursed—you are blessed in Christ. You are seated with Him in heavenly places. You are chosen, adopted, and sealed by His Spirit. Walk confidently, knowing that your life is covered by the blood of the Lamb and no spiritual or human power can undo what God has declared over you.
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Prayer of Salvation
If you have not given your life to Jesus Christ, now is the time. Pray with sincerity:
“Lord Jesus, I come to You today. I repent of my sins and turn away from compromise. I believe You died for me and rose again. I receive You as my Lord and Savior. Cleanse my heart and make me new. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit. From today, I am Yours. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
