Chapters 21-36 of the book of Numbers relates the history of the children of Israel, as the second generation is about to finally enter the Promised Land. Moses had not yet died. As they moved north, significant victories were accomplished. Sihon, king of the Amorites, and Og, king of Bashan, were defeated (Numbers 21:21-33). The country of Moab was next in line for battle (Numbers 22). Their King, Balak, became "sore afraid . . . distressed" (22:3) upon learning about the utter destruction of Sihon and Og and their nations. With a great deal of effort he hired a false prophet, Balaam, to "curse me this people" (22:17).

On three different occasions the Lord would not allow Balaam to curse Israel but actually bless them, even including phrases from the Abrahamic Covenant (24:9). It was at this point that Balaam spoke of a Star and Scepter that would come from Jacob, who would even bring judgment on Moab and surrounding nations. From Jacob came Judah; from Judah, David; and from David, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Thus the Lord, in Revelation 22:16, emphatically states, "I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star."

The promise to true believers in this present age is, "I will give him the morning star" (Revelation 2:28). Christ already shines in our hearts by His spiritual presence through the Holy Spirit. But one day He will come and be revealed in all His glory and brilliance, eventually to rule and reign over the nations (Revelation 2:25-27). Has the "day star" (II Peter 1:19) risen in our hearts? NPS