The men began to
indulge in sexual immorality with Moabite women, who invited them to the
sacrifices to their gods (Numbers 25:1,2).
This is the second installment of Balaam’s story. I never
really understood why, from the reporting of chapters 23 and 24, that Balaam
would have been sentenced to death. After all, he didn’t curse Israel. Then I gained some pertinent
information. Even though his name is not mentioned again until the report of
his death in chapter 31, many biblical scholars think Balaam was behind Moab’s
last ditch attack – namely the seduction of the Israelites.
On the surface, this speaks to the determination of Moab to
defeat the Hebrew people. Balak felt threatened by Israel, and when a frontal
military assault (Plan A) proved impractical, he attempted a side door attack
(Plan B) through his agent Balaam. When that was also unsuccessful, Balaam
apparently discovered where the men of Israel were weak, and attacked them via
their sexual appetites (Plan C).
For a spiritual application, Satan possesses this same
dogged determination to interfere with our connection to God. Just because he
is blocked on one front doesn’t mean he will give up. That’s why we need to be
honest about our weaknesses, put on our spiritual armor and stand guard every
day.
Each person is
tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed
(James 1:14).
TODAY’S MEDITATION
The front door to your heart
is probably locked and well-guarded. What about the back door? How can you
protect yourself? 
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