“Like a flitting sparrow, like a flying swallow, so a curse without cause shall not alight” (Proverbs 26:2).
The flight patterns of some birds are so random to human observers it is impossible to predict where a flitting sparrow or a flying swallow will ultimately land. A sparrow may appear to be headed for a high branch on a tree when it abruptly veers sharply to the right, then dives suddenly, and promptly perches on a bush.
The prophet Balaam was summoned by the king of Moab to come and curse Israel. Because of his love for the wages of unrighteousness (2 Pet. 2:15), Balaam sought to grant King Balak’s request. “Nevertheless, the Lord your God would not listen to Balaam, but the Lord your God turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you” (Deut. 23:5).
God’s people, especially His only-begotten Son—have had many vile things said about them. Numerous have sought to shame and curse them. Just because evil people have despised the righteous and have reviled them with words does not mean it has God’s stamp of approval. Their opinion is not the final and authoritative one. Therefore, if their words are untrue, the righteous will not give it a place to land in their minds.
