Revcort's Ramblings

Scripture Focus

“I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel…” Numbers 24:17 (ESV)

Devotional Thought

One of the most surprising prophecies about the coming Messiah was given not by a priest, not by a prophet of Israel, not by a faithful worshiper of Yahweh—but by a pagan sorcerer hired to curse God’s people.

Balak, the king of Moab, desperately wanted Israel destroyed. So he hired Balaam, a notorious diviner, hoping he could manipulate the spiritual realm to stop God’s advancing people. But God overruled Balaam’s tongue. Instead of cursing Israel, Balaam spoke blessing after blessing—culminating in a prophecy far beyond Balak’s imagination.

“I see him, but not now… a star shall come out of Jacob.”Balaam saw the faint outline of a future ruler—a King who would arise from Israel with power, authority, and victory. Though Balaam himself didn’t fully understand what he was saying, the Spirit of God placed on his lips a prophecy pointing directly to Christ, the One who would hold the scepter forever.

Centuries later, that “Star” appeared again—this time in the sky above Bethlehem. Wise men from the east, who may have known ancient prophecies like Balaam’s, recognized the sign and followed it to the newborn King. A pagan prophet foresaw the Messiah; Gentile seekers followed His star; and in Bethlehem they bowed before the true Ruler of heaven and earth.

This is the beauty of God’s plan:He can speak truth through anyone.He can reveal Christ in unexpected places.He can draw people from any nation to the Light of the World.

Numbers 24 reminds us that God’s promise cannot be hindered—not by kings, not by enemies, not even by pagan prophets. The Messiah would come, and nothing could stop Him. The Star has risen. The King has arrived.

Reflection Questions

1. What does Balaam’s prophecy teach you about God’s sovereignty over history—and over your life?

2. How does the connection between the “star from Jacob” and the Bethlehem star increase your awe of God’s prophetic precision?

3. Where might God be revealing Himself in unexpected places or people this Christmas season?

Closing Prayer

Father, thank You for showing Your power through unexpected voices and surprising events. Thank You for the prophecy of the Star who would come from Jacob and for the fulfillment of that promise in Jesus. Open my eyes to see Your hand at work and to follow the light of Christ wherever He leads. In His name I pray, Amen.