What can we learn about integrity from Balaam's statement in Numbers 24:13? Setting the Scene Balaam, a pagan diviner hired by King Balak, has already heard from God and blessed Israel twice. Pressed to curse them anyway, he repeats this resolve: Key Verse “Even if Balak were to give me his house full of silver and gold, I could not go beyond the command of the LORD to do either good or bad of my own will; I will say only what the LORD says.” (Numbers 24:13) What Integrity Looks Like in Balaam’s Words • Unbribable—no sum of “silver and gold” could change his stance. • Submitted—his personal desires are subordinate to “the command of the LORD.” • Truth-tethered—he speaks “only what the LORD says,” nothing more, nothing less. • Consistent—this declaration matches what he said earlier (Numbers 22:18; 23:12). Integrity Lessons for Us • Value obedience over opportunity. If God’s Word forbids or commands something, no promotion, relationship, or payoff justifies compromise (Matthew 4:8-10). • Let God set your limits. Like Balaam, refuse to “go beyond” what Scripture permits (1 Corinthians 4:6). • Guard your tongue. Integrity includes speaking God’s truth accurately, avoiding flattery or distortion (Ephesians 4:25). • Settle convictions before temptation arrives. Balaam’s answer was ready when Balak’s offer came; we likewise pre-decide to stand firm (Daniel 1:8). • Remember accountability. Balaam knew he reported to the LORD, not to earthly kings (Acts 5:29). Scriptures that Echo the Principle • Proverbs 11:3—“The integrity of the upright guides them.” • Psalm 15:2—One “who walks with integrity” may dwell in God’s presence. • 1 Samuel 12:3—Samuel invites scrutiny because he has taken no bribe. • Daniel 6:4—Officials find “no grounds for complaint” against Daniel except in matters of his God. • Acts 4:19—Peter and John: “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to listen to you rather than God.” Practical Take-Aways • Resolve never to trade obedience for advantage. • Keep Scripture central; let it shape every decision and every word. • Cultivate transparency—live so accusations can’t stick. • Trust God with the outcomes; integrity may cost now but saves eternally (Mark 8:36). Summary Balaam’s declaration in Numbers 24:13 teaches that true integrity means unwavering obedience to God’s revealed will, resistance to any form of bribery or pressure, and a steadfast commitment to speak only what God has said. |
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