2 Peter 2:16 KJV
[16] “but was rebuked for his iniquity: the dumb ass speaking with man’s voice forbad the madness of the prophet.”
It is clear to see that Balaam was motivated by money and materialism. However, what Balaam called opportunity, God called madness. Sin often looks reasonable, profitable, or harmless to the human mind, but in reality, it is reckless and destructive. The word “madness” means “to be out of one’s mind.” Whenever someone goes down the pathway of sin, they lose their common sense because their lustful desires get the best of them.
Balaam was a lawbreaker. The word “iniquity” in our verse means “acting contrary to law.” Balaam knew what God said, but he was controlled by greed. He had no objection to wickedness as long as he was going to profit from it. There are many so-called preachers today who fall into this same category. They are not in the ministry for the souls of men, but for financial profit. This means they will say whatever it takes to get ahead. They will do whatever is necessary to fatten their pockets. They are not men of principle and prayer, but men who are guilty of filthy lucre.
The doctrine of Balaam was to persuade the king of Moab to utilize the women of Moab to seduce the men of Israel. His desire was for the king to plunge the nation into immorality and idolatry. He informed the king that he could not conquer the nation, but if he could corrupt the people, God would pour out His judgment upon them. This is a very deceitful, diabolical, and devilish plan. In Revelation 2:14, the Bible refers to this as the doctrine of Balaam. Many follow this same doctrine today. They teach God’s people how to live in sin and idolatry, so they can live a wealthy lifestyle. It is wicked to sell out the souls of men and women for earthly gain. This is what God calls spiritual madness.
A final thought in this devotional is that we see how God uses a lowly animal to correct this mad prophet. This shows that a spiritual position does not make a person immune to correction. The Lord spoke through this dumb animal as a warning to Balaam to cease his sinful ways. Pride can cause a person to ignore warnings. The donkey’s voice was meant to prevent Balaam from going any further. Has God ever put a stern warning in your path? What was your reaction when you received the warning? Remember, when the Lord does this, He is showing us mercy. He wants to prevent us from spiritual damage and regret.