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The Beginning of the End
an angel of God standing as a witness to testify against them in the
courts above. A day is coming when judgment will be pronounced
against those who abuse God’s creatures.
Balaam Prevented From Cursing Israel
When he saw the messenger of God, Balaam exclaimed in terror,
“I have sinned, for I did not know that You stood in the way against
me. Now therefore, if it displeases You, I will turn back.” The Lord
allowed him to continue on his journey, but divine power would
control his words. God would give Moab evidence that the Hebrews
were under the guardianship of Heaven, and He did this when He
showed them how powerless Balaam was to utter a curse against
them.
The king of Moab, informed of Balaam’s approach, went out to
meet him. When he expressed astonishment at Balaam’s delay in
view of the rich rewards awaiting him, the prophet answered, “Have
I any power at all to say anything? The word that God puts in my
mouth, that I must speak.” Balaam greatly regretted this restriction
because he was afraid that his plans could not be carried out.
The king, with the chief dignitaries of the kingdom, escorted
Balaam to “the high places of Baal,” where he could see the Hebrew
camp. How little the Israelites knew of what was taking place so
near them! How little they knew of the care of God, extended over
them day and night!
Balaam had some knowledge of the sacrificial offerings of the
Hebrews, and he hoped that by making more impressive sacrifices
he could ensure the success of his sinful projects. Seven altars were
erected, and he offered a sacrifice on each. He then withdrew to a
“desolate height” to meet with God.
With the nobles and princes of Moab, the king stood beside the
sacrifice, watching for the return of the prophet. He came at last,
and the people waited for the words that would paralyze forever that
strange power exerted in behalf of the hated Israelites. Balaam said:
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Balak the king of Moab has brought me from Aram,
From the mountains of the east,
“Come, curse Jacob for me,