Numbers 22 - Compromise

What would it take for you to compromise your faith?  Martyrs have through the ages and their faith did not waiver. We would all like to believe that our faith would remain steadfast in the face of a test, but how many before us have fallen when faced with offers if compromise?  

In this chapter we are introduced to Balaam who was known for his powers. The King of Moab summoned him to place a curse on Israel after they had defeated several people groups in the land.  Moabites were nervous and summoned supernatural powers to help them stand against this nation in battle. 

Balaam lived near the Euphrates River. He wasn't an Israelite, but when he prayed to God upon receiving the request from the King, God speaks to him giving him clear direction that these messengers who came from the King to make this offer were on the wrong side of the battle. God had blessed the nation of Israel. Balaam sends the messengers away, but doesn't give them the prophesy he received from God. The King of course thought his offer was insufficient to stir him to action, so he sends new men and bigger payments. 

Though Balaam had received clear word from God this new offer caused him to go back and ask for permission again. Balaam was hoping God would see the prosperity he was being offered and change His mind for the sake of prospering Balaam. Seeing that Balaam's heart was so easily swayed God did not stop him from going. 

When we harden our hearts for the sake of any sin God will allow us our way even if it leads to destruction. We must be diligent in guarding our hearts. Sin can entangle us so easily. Balaam took God's release to be an endorsement of the crime he wanted to commit. He was swayed by money and the honors the King would bestow. He really didn't care which side the honors came from. While God was clear that Israel was blessed, God didn't offer immediate fame and fortune. 

His donkey could see the danger muchore clearly than Balaam who had closed his eyes. To God, making a donkey talk was a small thing. In God's economy the impossible is possible.  The Angel of God was prepared to stop Balaam in his tracks to keep him from his wrecklessness. Once Balaam repented the angel sent him on his way to the king, but not with the intent of cursing. Balaam was to speak God's message over the nation Israel. 

How many times have we pursued wrecklessness and found ourselves thwarted not knowing that God had erected a barrier to keep us from executing our plans. Thank God He keeps His children. Let us be very careful to pursue righteousness and be quick to repentance if we should be swayed off that path. 

May God richly bless you as you seek Him and as you serve Him.