Raised Altars

Text: Num. 22:1-6, 30-40.
More Lessons: II Kings 17:9-11

An altar is any structure made of earth or stone on which sacrifices are offered or a spirit is invoked or contacted. Altars are generally erected in conspicuous places and mostly on a raised ground or high place. There are godly altars and satanic altars. The first altar recorded in scriptures was by Noah (Gen. 8:20). Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Moses all raised altars and the entire Old Testament are filled with several altars raised both for God and satanic idols. The tabernacle of Moses and the temple of Solomon also had altars where Jehovah was called upon. (Exo. 30:28, II Chro. 4:1). In our reading today, Balak, scared of the testimonies of Israel, consulted the prophet, Balam to help curse the Israelites; and to do that, Balam, raised several altars.

No great destiny is fulfilled or altered without an altar raised for or against it. In the African society, it is said that before kings and presidents are enthroned or politicians occupy major positions, altars are raised ahead of them to spiritually facilitate, consolidate and confirm their posts. Many engage in ritual killing of innocent people, including harmless babies, to sacrifice on these altars for spiritual backing.

In today's reading, Balak heard about the children of Israel and what they did to their enemies. He became afraid, Now shall this company (Israel) lick up all that are round about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the field…Num 22:4.King Balak knew that his army and the best weaponry available in his time and nation could not handle the battle. He recognized that there must be a spiritual force (altar) behind the people of Israel.

Therefore, he sought a well-seasoned prophet, Balam, to raise an altar to curse the children of Israel. It is not always true, like some people believe, that if you had done no one any evil, you can't be cursed. Good men die before their time. What did Israel do to Balak and Moab that justified hiring Balam to curse them?

Some people are not happy at the joy, increase or expansion of others and merely seeing others flourishing irritates and angers them. Such wicked people will eagerly raise altars against your life, whether you are aware of it or not. But just as Jehovah helped to change the words meant to curse to blessings for Israel, so He will arise on your behalf to frustrate tokens of the wicked raised against you from any altar, in Jesus' name.

Prayer/ Action
* Send the fire of God to every evil altar raised against you, now.
* Send every curse back to sender, in Jesus’ name.

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