Numbers 22:8

"Spend the night here," Balaam replied, "and I will give you the answer that the LORD speaks to me." So the princes of Moab stayed with Balaam.

Study Bible

Spend the night here,
Balaam's invitation for the messengers to stay the night indicates a customary practice in the ancient Near East, where hospitality was a significant cultural value. This phrase suggests a pause for reflection and consultation, highlighting the importance of seeking divine guidance before making decisions. It also sets the stage for Balaam's interaction with God, emphasizing the need for patience and discernment in spiritual matters.

Balaam replied,
Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet, is a complex figure in the biblical narrative. His role as a diviner is acknowledged, yet his actions and motivations are scrutinized throughout the story. This phrase introduces Balaam's response, which is pivotal in understanding his character and the unfolding events. His reply reflects his awareness of the spiritual realm and his willingness to engage with the divine, despite his later actions that reveal conflicting loyalties.

and I will give you the answer that the LORD speaks to me.
Balaam's statement underscores the importance of divine revelation in decision-making. The use of "the LORD" (Yahweh) indicates that Balaam recognizes the God of Israel as the ultimate authority, despite his pagan background. This phrase highlights the theme of God's sovereignty and the necessity of aligning human actions with divine will. It also foreshadows the tension between Balaam's desire for personal gain and his obligation to convey God's message accurately.

So the princes of Moab stayed with Balaam.
The presence of the Moabite princes signifies the political and spiritual stakes involved in Balaam's decision. Moab, a neighboring nation of Israel, sought to curse Israel through Balaam, reflecting the historical enmity between the two peoples. This phrase illustrates the intersection of political intrigue and spiritual warfare, as the Moabite leaders await a pronouncement that could alter the balance of power. It also serves as a reminder of the broader narrative of God's protection over Israel, despite external threats.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Balaam
A non-Israelite prophet known for his ability to bless and curse. He is approached by Balak, king of Moab, to curse the Israelites.

2. Princes of Moab
Representatives sent by Balak to persuade Balaam to curse the Israelites. They are emissaries of Moab's king, indicating the seriousness of the request.

3. Balak
The king of Moab who fears the Israelites due to their numbers and seeks Balaam's help to curse them.

4. Moab
A region east of the Dead Sea, whose king, Balak, is threatened by the presence of the Israelites.

5. The LORD (Yahweh)
The God of Israel, who communicates with Balaam, demonstrating His sovereignty over all nations and peoples.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty
God is in control of all situations, even when His people are unaware. Balaam's account shows that God can use anyone to fulfill His purposes, even those outside of Israel.

The Danger of Compromise
Balaam's willingness to entertain the princes of Moab shows the danger of compromising one's faith for personal gain. Believers must be vigilant against the temptation to compromise their values.

Seeking God's Will
Balaam's statement about waiting for the LORD's answer highlights the importance of seeking God's guidance in decision-making. Believers should prioritize God's will over human desires.

The Power of Words
The request for Balaam to curse Israel underscores the power of words. As believers, we should use our words to bless and build up others, aligning with God's purposes.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does Balaam's interaction with the princes of Moab teach us about the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions?

2. How does the account of Balaam illustrate the principle found in Genesis 12:3 regarding blessings and curses?

3. In what ways can believers today be tempted to compromise their faith for personal gain, similar to Balaam's situation?

4. How does God's intervention in Balaam's account demonstrate His sovereignty and protection over His people?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for God's guidance. How did that experience shape your understanding of His will and timing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:3
God's promise to Abraham that He will bless those who bless him and curse those who curse him. This is relevant as Balaam is asked to curse Israel, Abraham's descendants.

Deuteronomy 23:4-5
This passage recounts how Balaam was hired to curse Israel but God turned the curse into a blessing, showing God's protective hand over His people.

2 Peter 2:15
Balaam is mentioned as an example of someone who loved the wages of wickedness, highlighting the moral and spiritual dangers of greed.