Beginning of the End - Ellen G. White

remained a distinct people.
Balaam Sees God's Favor on Israel
Balaam saw the growth and prosperity of the true Israel of God
to the close of time, the special favor of the Most High on those who
love and fear Him. He saw them supported by His arm as they
entered the dark valley of the shadow of death, and he witnessed
them coming out of their graves, crowned with glory, honor, and
immortality. He viewed the redeemed rejoicing in the unfading
glories of the new earth. As he saw the crown of glory on every
head and their endless life of happiness, he uttered the solemn
prayer, "Let me die the death of the righteousness, and let my end be
like his!"
If Balaam had been in the habit of accepting the light God had
given, he would have severed all connection with Moab
immediately. He would have returned to God with deep repentance.
But Balaam loved the rewards of unrighteousness.
Balak had expected a curse that would fall like a withering
plague on Israel, and he angrily exclaimed, "What have you done to
me? I took you to curse my enemies, and look, you have blessed
them bountifully!" Balaam claimed to have spoken the words from a
careful respect for the will of God, but they had actually been forced
from his lips by divine power. "Must I not take heed to speak what
the Lord has put in my mouth?"
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