Definition: If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the commandment of the LORD, to do [either] good or bad of mine own mind; [but] what the LORD saith, that will I speak?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Numbers 24:13. It's a really important and somewhat dramatic passage in the Book of Exodus. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Story: This verse is about Moses and his brothers, Balaam, and his sons. They were being pursued by the Israelites’ enemies – they were being harassed and threatened. They were trying to trick Moses into giving them his house full of riches in exchange for their safety. What’s Happening? Balaam's Offer: Balaam, a spiritual leader, is offering to give Moses his house full of silver and gold as a bribe. He wants to convince Moses that he can secure the Israelites’ future by giving him this wealth. Moses’ Response: Moses doesn't agree with Balaam. He clearly understands that Balaam is being manipulative and trying to exploit him. The Key Message – “What the LORD saith…” This is the crucial part. The verse says, "What the LORD saith, that will I speak." It’s like saying, “The Lord tells me what to do, and I will obey.” Meaning & Interpretation: Submission to God's Will: This verse emphasizes that Moses is utterly obedient to God’s commands. It’s a statement of submission – he understands his responsibility is to follow the divine plan. Avoiding Temptation: It suggests that Balaam’s offer was a temptation, and Moses resisted it because he knew he needed to stay true to God's will. Protecting the Israelites: It underscores the importance of resisting evil influences and staying on the righteous path. In essence, this verse is a powerful reminder that we should always listen to God’s guidance and resist temptation, even when it seems appealing. Why is this important? This passage is a foundational moment in the story of Moses and his leadership. It shows that Moses was entrusted with a monumental task – leading the Israelites out of Egypt and protecting them from harm. It highlights his unwavering commitment to God’s purpose, even when faced with difficult choices. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Discuss the context of the story? Connect it to a larger theme in the Bible (like obedience or divine providence)?