Balaam and the Talking Donkey

Balaam was a well-known prophet who lived during the time when the Israelites were traveling toward

the Promised Land. When King Balak of Moab saw how large and powerful Israel had become,

he grew afraid. Believing that Balaam’s words carried spiritual power, Balak sent messengers

with gifts, asking Balaam to come and curse the Israelites. At first,

God clearly told Balaam not to go, because Israel was blessed. Balaam refused and

sent the messengers away, but when Balak sent more important officials with greater rewards,

Balaam began to waver. Although God allowed Balaam to go with the men,

He warned him to speak only the words He would give him. As Balaam traveled on his donkey,