November 27

“Forsaking the right way, they went astray, having followed the way of Balaam.” 2 Peter 2:15

Balaam was a prophet who worked for reward; he commercialized the prophetic ministry. He was not ignorant of the mind of God and was well aware that Israel was a people whom God would bless. Moreover. God had plainly forbidden him to comply with Balak’s request and go and curse them. But the great reward lured him. How could he possibly obtain it? He decided that he would try to get God to reverse his decision.

The plan was carried into effect and at first seemed successful. God actually granted him the permission he had earlier refused. In fact, he simply let Balaam go his own self-chosen way, which according to the above verse was not “the right way” at all. How terrible to be released by God to go one’s own greedy way instead of walking in the way of the Lord!