The Way of Balaam

When Prophets Lose Their Way

Balaam is one of the strangest and most tragic figures in the Bible. A prophet who heard from God, yet whose heart was divided. The story in Numbers 22 seems at first like a success: Balaam refuses to curse Israel, insisting that he can only speak what God tells him. But as Scripture unfolds, we see that Balaam’s story is not one of faithfulness, but of compromise—and ultimately, judgment.

A Prophet for Hire

In Numbers 22:5–6, Balak, king of Moab, sends messengers to Balaam with an urgent request: “Come now, curse this people for me… for I know that he whom you bless is blessed, and he whom you curse is cursed.” Balaam appears hesitant and replies in verse 8, “Lodge here tonight, and I will bring back word to you, as the Lord speaks to me.” At first, God clearly forbids Balaam from going: “You shall not go with them. You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed” (Numbers 22:12).

But when Balak sends more officials and promises greater rewards, Balaam entertains the offer again (verse 18), saying, “Though Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the command of the Lord my God.” Yet he asks God a second time—a sign his heart was already leaning toward compromise. God permits him to go, but only with clear limits: “Go with them, but only do what I tell you” (Numbers 22:20).

The Angel and the Donkey

As Balaam sets out, God’s anger burns against him (Numbers 22:22), and the Angel of the Lord stands in the road to oppose him. Balaam is blind to the danger, but his donkey sees. Three times the donkey turns aside to avoid the angel (verses 23–27). Finally, after Balaam strikes the donkey, God opens the donkey’s mouth: “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?” (verse 28). Then God opens Balaam’s eyes, and he sees the angel standing with sword drawn.

2 Peter 2:15–16 reflects on this moment: “They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Bezer, who loved the wages of wickedness. But he was rebuked for his wrongdoing by a donkey—a beast without speech—who spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet’s madness.”

Charles Spurgeon writes, “He who serves God for money will serve the devil for better wages.” Balaam’s motivation wasn’t holiness—it was reward. And when riches lead the heart, even divine words can become a tool for self-promotion.

God’s Character Is Unchanging

We might wonder: how can someone who knows God drift so far off course?

1 Samuel 15:29 reminds us, “He who is the Glory of Israel does not lie or change His mind; for He is not a human being, that He should change His mind.” God’s purposes are steady, even when His messengers waver. He doesn’t bend to human agendas or allow His truth to be bartered.

Alexander Maclaren observed, “There is something terribly noble in the steadfastness of God’s purpose, and something unspeakably awful in the contrast with man’s fitfulness.” Balaam thought he could play both sides. But God is not mocked.

Compromise and Corruption

While Balaam didn’t directly curse Israel, he found another way to damage God’s people. Revelation 2:14 records Jesus’ rebuke to the church in Pergamum: “There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality.”

Balaam’s counsel led Israel into sin (see Numbers 25:1–3), and the fallout was devastating. Eugene Peterson, in Reversed Thunder, wrote, “Balaam is a religious professional who makes a good living from religion while sabotaging its content. He talks the language of faith while living the life of greed.” That warning still echoes today.

A Warning for Us Today

The story of Balaam warns us against divided hearts. Like Balaam, we may be tempted to dress up disobedience in the clothing of religious language—saying the right words while secretly chasing our own desires.

Balaam’s donkey saw more clearly than he did. Sometimes God uses the unexpected to awaken us from our spiritual blindness. A delay. A disruption. Even a rebuke from someone we least expect. Will we listen?

Balaam’s story ends in judgment. Though he prophesied truth, he lived a lie.

Reflection Questions

Are there ways I, like Balaam, am tempted to speak God’s words while secretly pursuing my own will?

Do I believe God’s character is unchanging, or do I try to bend His will to fit mine?

Am I listening to the warnings God places in my path—even if they come in unusual ways?

Prayer

Lord, keep me from the way of Balaam. Guard my heart from divided loyalties. Make me faithful not just in speech but in life. Help me to follow Your unchanging will, even when the world offers me riches, power, or applause. Give me eyes to see Your truth, ears to hear Your warnings, and a heart that fully belongs to You. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Mystery of Nephilim ??

 The Nephilim and the Mystery of Genesis

Reflection on Genesis 6:4:

“The Nephilim were on the earth in those days—and also afterward—when the sons of God went to the daughters of humans and had children by them. They were the heroes of old, men of renown.” (Genesis 6:4, NIV)

Genesis 6:4 is one of the most enigmatic verses in Scripture, often sparking debate and curiosity among readers. The mention of the Nephilim, the sons of God, and the daughters of humans introduces a mysterious element into the narrative just before God’s decision to flood the earth. To understand this passage, we can reflect on three key aspects: the identity of the Nephilim, the significance of their presence, and what it teaches us about human pride, sin, and God’s response.

1. The Identity of the Nephilim

The word “Nephilim” has been translated in various ways, often meaning “fallen ones” or “giants.” Some ancient interpretations, such as the Book of Enoch and writings by early church fathers, suggest that the “sons of God” were fallen angels who took human wives, producing a race of giants or mighty men. This view, while intriguing, remains speculative since the biblical text offers no detailed explanation.

Others interpret the “sons of God” as being descendants of Seth (the godly line), and the “daughters of humans” as descendants of Cain (the ungodly line). The Nephilim, in this case, would represent powerful and corrupt human rulers who abused their strength and influence.

Regardless of the interpretation, the Nephilim symbolize unchecked human ambition and pride, embodying the world’s growing corruption that grieved God’s heart (Genesis 6:5).

2. The Significance of the Nephilim’s Presence

The Nephilim are described as “heroes of old, men of renown,” suggesting that they were famous and possibly revered. This points to a culture that glorified strength, power, and fame rather than righteousness. Their presence emphasizes how far humanity had drifted from God’s original purpose for creation. Instead of walking in humility and dependence on God, people exalted themselves, pursuing greatness apart from Him.

Alexander Maclaren notes that the mention of “men of renown” underscores humanity’s misplaced values—what the world honors often contrasts sharply with what God values. The flood narrative that follows illustrates God’s desire not just to judge sin but to restore His creation to its intended order.

3. The Lesson of Human Pride and Divine Judgment

The rise of the Nephilim and the corruption of humanity highlight the destructive nature of sin when it is left unchecked. The world had become filled with violence and rebellion, prompting God’s response. Yet, even in the midst of judgment, there is grace—Noah, a man who walked with God, found favor in His eyes (Genesis 6:8).

C.S. Lewis once observed that human pride is at the root of all sin, leading people to seek glory apart from God. Genesis 6:4 illustrates this truth: as humanity pursued fame and power, they drifted further from their Creator, bringing about their own downfall.

Key Themes and Lessons

1. The Corruption of Humanity

The story of the Nephilim highlights a world that glorified might over morality and fame over faithfulness. This invites us to reflect on our own culture and the ways in which we might prioritize worldly success over spiritual integrity.

2. The Dangers of Pride

The Nephilim remind us of the danger of human pride—when people seek to make a name for themselves apart from God, it often leads to violence, oppression, and ruin.

3. God’s Grace Amid Judgment

Even in a world filled with corruption, God extended grace by calling Noah to build the ark. This reminds us that, despite human sinfulness, God’s mercy is always present, offering hope and a path to salvation.

Personal Application

• Am I tempted to pursue fame, power, or recognition in ways that might distance me from God?

• How can I, like Noah, walk faithfully with God in a world that often values the wrong things?

• In what ways can I be an agent of grace in a culture prone to pride and self-exaltation?

A Prayer Based on Genesis 6:4

Lord, thank You for Your Word, which reminds me of the dangers of pride and the corruption it brings. Help me to seek Your glory rather than my own and to walk faithfully with You, even when the world around me pursues empty fame. Thank You for Your grace that offers hope in the midst of judgment. Strengthen me to live humbly and righteously, reflecting Your light in a dark world. Amen. 

🙏🏽

Soli Deo Gloria

Faith of Noah

A World Corrupted and a Man Called by God

Reflection on Genesis 6

Genesis 6 marks a turning point in the biblical narrative, setting the stage for the flood and revealing deep truths about human sin, divine judgment, and God’s grace. This chapter begins with a vivid description of a world spiraling into wickedness and ends with a glimmer of hope in the obedience and faithfulness of one man: Noah.

1. A World of Corruption (Genesis 6:1-7)

“The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.” (v. 5)

The opening verses reveal a world consumed by sin. The phrase “every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time” underscores the depth of human depravity. Sin was not merely an external issue but a pervasive internal condition affecting every aspect of life.

Walter Brueggemann observes that Genesis 6 portrays the seriousness of sin in a way that sets up the tension between God’s justice and His mercy. While sin grieves God’s heart, it also stirs Him to act in judgment. This reminds us that God does not overlook evil; His holiness demands justice.

2. Divine Judgment and Grief (Genesis 6:6-7)

“The LORD regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled.” (v. 6)

These verses offer a rare glimpse into the emotions of God. His regret and grief highlight His relational nature and His deep investment in creation. God’s sorrow over sin is not distant or detached; it is personal, reflecting His love for humanity.

C.S. Lewis once wrote that “pain is God’s megaphone to rouse a deaf world.” Here, the flood represents not a final destruction but a painful act intended to cleanse and restore creation. God’s judgment is severe, but it is not devoid of grace.

3. The Grace of God and the Faith of Noah (Genesis 6:8-10)

“But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.” (v. 8)

Amid a corrupt generation, Noah stands out as a man who walks with God. The Hebrew word for “favor” (grace) signals that Noah’s righteousness is not self-generated but a response to God’s grace. Noah’s life illustrates that it is possible to live faithfully even in a culture dominated by sin.

Matthew Henry emphasizes that Noah’s obedience was not passive; he acted in faith, building the ark despite the ridicule he likely faced. This challenges us to trust God even when His commands seem difficult or countercultural.

4. The Call to Build and the Covenant of Hope (Genesis 6:11-22)

“So God said to Noah, ‘I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. Make yourself an ark of cypress wood…’” (vv. 13-14)

God’s instruction to Noah to build the ark is both a means of judgment and a provision of salvation. The ark becomes a symbol of God’s faithfulness to preserve life and His desire to give humanity a second chance.

Eugene Peterson, reflecting on Noah’s faith, writes that obedience in the face of the unknown is a hallmark of true faith. Noah’s task required persistence, trust, and the courage to stand alone. His example teaches us that when God calls, our role is to trust and obey, even when we don’t fully understand His plan.

Key Themes and Lessons

1. The Depth of Human Sin

Genesis 6 reminds us of the seriousness of sin. It corrupts not only individual lives but entire societies, leading to violence and destruction. This chapter calls us to examine our own hearts and turn from sin.

2. God’s Sorrow Over Sin

The description of God’s grief reveals His heart of love. He is not indifferent to human suffering or sin; He feels deeply for His creation.

3. Grace in the Midst of Judgment

Even in a time of widespread corruption, God extends grace. Noah’s life shows that grace invites us to walk in faith and obedience.

4. Faith and Obedience

Noah’s obedience in building the ark is a powerful example of living by faith. His story encourages us to trust God’s promises, even when they seem distant or unclear.

Personal Application

• How can I live faithfully like Noah in a world that often seems to reject God’s ways?

• Am I willing to trust God’s instructions, even when they don’t fully make sense to me?

• How can I bear witness to God’s grace in the midst of a broken world?

A Prayer Based on Genesis 6

Lord, the world around me often feels chaotic and far from You. Help me to walk faithfully like Noah, trusting in Your grace and obeying Your word. Thank You for being a God who grieves over sin yet offers hope and salvation. Strengthen my faith when the path ahead seems unclear, and let my life reflect Your light and love in this dark world. Amen.

🙏🏽

Soli Deo Gloria