Numbers 22: Balaam and Balak

Introduction: Numbers 22 is an intriguing chapter in the Old Testament where we encounter the unusual story of Balaam, a pagan prophet, and his talking donkey. This chapter perplexes many Christians but offers profound spiritual lessons on obedience, temptation, and God’s sovereignty.

I. The King’s Fear and Request (Numbers 22:1-6)

Balak, the Moabite king, was filled with dread when he saw how the Israelites had defeated the Amorites. Driven by fear, he sent elders of Moab and Midian to Balaam with a request to curse Israel (Joshua 24:9). His actions remind us that fear can lead one to work against God’s purposes (Psalm 56:3).

II. Balaam’s Initial Obedience (Numbers 22:7-14)

Balaam’s initial response is admirable. He refuses to act without God’s command, illustrating Proverbs 3:6, “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

III. God’s Warning to Balaam (Numbers 22:15-20)

Despite God’s clear direction, Balaam was tempted to go with Balak’s officials (James 1:14). God allowed him to go but with a stern warning to speak only what God commands.

IV. The Donkey’s Vision and Rebuke (Numbers 22:21-35)

Even Balaam’s donkey saw the Angel of the Lord and reacted fearfully, teaching us that God can reveal Himself even through the least expected means (1 Corinthians 1:27). Balaam’s anger towards the donkey, while the real threat was in front of him, is a lesson about misplaced anger (Ephesians 4:26).

V. Balaam’s Repentance and Submission (Numbers 22:36-41)

After his encounter with the Angel, Balaam humbly submits to God’s will and pronounces blessings upon Israel instead of curses (Proverbs 19:21). His actions teach us that true repentance includes not just words, but changes in our actions (Acts 26:20).

Conclusion: Numbers 22 is more than just an unusual story: it is a serious call to obedience and trust in God’s sovereignty. We should learn from Balaam’s mistakes and strive to follow God’s directions in our lives, trusting that His plans are higher than our own (Isaiah 55:9). We must guard against temptation and ensure our actions align with God’s Word, remembering that God is able to make even the unlikeliest instruments speak His truth.