Reflection: 

In this chapter of Numbers, a well-known individual was hired to curse Israel, but God’s sovereignty transformed it into a blessing. God, through Israel’s story, is teaching and instructing us (Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians 10:11). 

Balaam says: God “has not observed any iniquity (sin)… or wickedness in Israel.” Let’s think about that. Was there any sin in Israel? Of course there was! But God “has not observed iniquity in Jacob, nor has He seen wickedness in Israel.” What does this mean for Christians? 

God does not see iniquity or wickedness in Christians. 

We fall short of God’s command to love him and neighbour with all. There is no denying we have sinned (1 John 1:8). And yet, God does not see any iniquity or wickedness in you. Why? Because you are in Christ in whom is no condemnation (Romans 8:1). Instead, through the wondrous exchange, Christ has become our “righteousness, holiness and redemption” (1 Corinthians 1:30).  

Jesus exchanged our sin for his righteousness. Our identity, in Christ, is righteous. Clearly grasping this increases our spiritual resilience. 

Living righteously is in accord with our true identity. When we sin, confession and repentance realign us with our identity and calling. 

Prayer: 

Lord Jesus, thank you for what you did on the cross. Help me to see myself, to understand my identity, as being in Christ. By your Holy Spirit, help me to live up to what I have already attained (Philippians 3:16), outworking in my life the righteous identity you have already gifted me with.