From Eternity Past

Balaam Sees God's Favor on Israel

Balaam beheld the increase and prosperity of the true Israel of God to the close of time, the special favor of the Most High attending those who love and fear Him. He saw them supported by His arm as they entered the dark valley of the shadow of death. And he beheld them coming forth from their graves, crowned with glory, honor, and immortality. He saw the redeemed rejoicing in the unfading glories of the earth made new. As he saw the crown of glory on every brow and looked forward to that endless life of happiness, he uttered the solemn prayer, “Let me die the death of the righteousness, and let my last end be like his!” EP 315.2

If Balaam had had a disposition to accept the light God had given, he would at once have severed all connection with Moab. He would have returned to God with deep repentance. But Balaam loved the wages of unrighteousness. EP 315.3

Balak had expected a curse that would fall like a withering blight upon Israel, and he passionately exclaimed, “What hast thou done unto me? I took thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast blessed them altogether.” Balaam professed to have spoken from a conscientious regard for the will of God the words that had been forced from his lips by divine power. “Must I not take heed to speak that which the Lord hath put in my mouth?” EP 315.4