Torah from Rabbi Saunders

Parshas Balak tells the story of Balak, the king of Moab, and Billam, a prophet with the unique ability to bless or curse. Balak, fearing the Jewish people , hires Bilam to curse them. However, despite Balak's efforts, Hashem intervenes and turns Bilam's intended curses into blessings.

One of the most beautiful and uplifting messages comes from Bilam's own words  24:5: "How good are your tents, Yaakov , your dwelling places, Yisrael!"

This verse, known as "Ma Tovu," is a praise of the Jews' harmonious and respectable way of life. Even in a situation where negativity and curses were anticipated, the result was a profound and positive acknowledgment of the goodness and blessings surrounding the Jews.

The uplifting takeaway is that even when faced with adversity or when others attempt to bring us down, there is always an opportunity for Hashem to turn those moments into blessings and to help us see the inherent goodness in our lives. Challenges and negative intentions can transform into opportunities for growth, affirmation, and unexpected positive outcomes.

So, remember, when times seem tough or when you face opposition, there is a higher power working to turn those moments into blessings. Keep faith, maintain your integrity, and trust that positivity and goodness will prevail.