In this week's parsha, Balak, we learn:

• God will protect us from all kinds of threats- including those posed by spells and curses rather than physical weapons.


• God controls our five senses and determines whether we can speak, see, hear, touch or smell.


• Sometimes people get themselves into trouble by making problematic choices.


• There are different kinds of leadership. Sometimes leadership can be slow and thoughtful. Other times, it needs to be quick and decisive. In this week's parsha, Pinchas, Aharon's grandson, demonstrated quick and decisive leadership.