Numbers 24

Insight: Shifting from Control to Connection

We often approach parenting like Balaam approached his mission: trying to "engineer" the right outcome through checklists, rewards, or specific tactics. Balaam spent his energy seeking omens to force a result. When he finally stopped trying to manipulate the situation and simply "looked" at his children—beholding them as they were, camp by camp—he found beauty instead of a battle. Parenting "micro-wins" happen when we stop trying to control every outcome and start observing the reality of our children with "unveiled eyes."

Text Snapshot

"Balaam looked up and saw Israel encamped... the spirit of God came upon him. Taking up his theme, he said: 'How fair are your tents, O Jacob, Your dwellings, O Israel!'" (Numbers 24:2–5)

Activity: The 5-Minute "Behold"

Tonight, before your child falls asleep or during a quiet moment, practice the art of "beholding." Sit near them, put your phone in another room, and just look at them for three minutes. Don’t assess their behavior, their grades, or their chores. Just notice their physical presence. When you are done, whisper one thing you truly appreciate about who they are right now.

Script: The "I Don't Know" Pivot

Child: "Why do I have to do this if it doesn't make sense?" Parent: "That is a fair question. Honestly, I don't always have the perfect reason, but I’m doing my best to guide you based on what I see right now. Let’s pause and see if we can find a better way to tackle this together."

Habit: The "Unveiled Eye"

Pick one recurring "chaos point" this week (e.g., morning drop-off). Instead of reacting to the stress, take three seconds to stop and look at your child's face before you say anything. Shift from "fixer" to "observer."

Takeaway

Bless the chaos. You don't need to force a perfect outcome to be a successful parent; you just need to keep your eyes open to the good that is already there.