2nd.: Balaam’s First Inquiry
Balak's messengers went to Balaam the prophet.
They wanted him to curse Israel.
Balaam graciously housed his guests that night.
But he told them, they had to wait for the Lord to respond (Num. 22:7-8).
God came to Balaam. They had the following conversation (Num. 22:9-12):
G: What men are these with thee?
B: Balak, the son of Zippor, king of Moab, has sent unto me saying,
‘Behold, there is a people come out of Egypt, which covers the face of the earth.
Come now, curse [for] me them; peradventure I shall be able to overcome them, and drive them out.
G: Thou shalt not go with them. Thou shalt not curse the people, for they are blessed."
Balaam then sent the messengers back to their boss saying,
“The Lord refuses to give me leave to go with you.” (Num. 22:13).
Because it was not recorded, it is assumed that Balaam failed to tell the messengers,
“Thou shalt not curse the Israelites, for they are blessed.”
Nevertheless, Balaam did relay to the messengers, God's message.
“Ye shall observe to do therefore as the Lord your God has commanded you. Ye shall not turn aside to the right hand, or to the left.” (Deut. 5:32)