Numbers 22:36 - Meaning and Application

Here we see Balak and Balaam meeting as allies against God’s people, Israel, but they do not come with the same confidence. Balak speaks as if the plan is already working, now that Balaam has arrived. He had gone out to meet him all the way to the far edge of his country (Numbers 22:36), partly because he was eager to see the man he had hoped so much from, and partly to honor Balaam and win his full help.

This shows how much respect pagan rulers gave to men who had the name of prophets and seemed to have access to heaven. They were glad to welcome one who came ready to speak curses. How shameful it is, then, that the ambassadors of Christ are often given so little respect, are despised by some, and are so coldly received even though they bring peace and blessing. Balak’s only complaint now is that Balaam did not come sooner (Numbers 22:37). He feels Balaam should have been moved by the urgent way he was sent for, and by the offer of honor. As king, Balak had the power to give high rank and reward, so he thought Balaam was insulting him by delaying, as if the honors offered were not good enough.

This reminds us that promotion and honor are powerful temptations for many people. It would be a good thing if we were drawn to serve God by the honor he offers. Why do we delay coming to him? Is he not able to promote us to honor?

Balaam, however, speaks much less confidently about what will happen. He warns Balak not to count too much on him (Numbers 22:38). He says, in effect, “I have come, but I cannot do anything on my own. I would gladly curse Israel, but I must not and cannot, because God will not allow it.” He sounds annoyed, as one restrained by God’s power, like Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, who was held back by God (Isaiah 37:29).

They then hurry into the business at once. Balaam is treated with great honor that night, and a thanksgiving sacrifice is offered to the gods of Moab for his safe arrival. Then they share a feast from that sacrifice (Numbers 22:40). The next morning, so no time would be lost, Balak takes Balaam in his chariot to the high places of his kingdom. He thinks the height of the place may help Balaam’s divining, and he also wants a better view of Israel’s camp, the target for Balaam’s curses.

At this point, Balaam is really just as eager to please Balak as he had once claimed to be eager to please God. This is a warning to pray each day, “Our Father in heaven, lead us not into temptation.”