Beginning of the End - Ellen G. White

thoughts constantly suggested. Their life of ease produced its
demoralizing effect, and almost unconsciously they were departing
from God into a condition where they would easily fall to
temptation.
During the time of their camping beside the Jordan river,
Moses was preparing for the occupation of Canaan. The great leader
was fully employed in this work, but this time of suspense was very
difficult for the people. Before many weeks had passed their history
was marred by frightful departures from virtue and integrity.
Midianite women began quietly entering the camp. These
women planned to seduce the Hebrews into violating the law of God
and to lead them into idolatry. They hid these motives very carefully
under the cloak of friendship.
At Balaam's suggestion, the king of Moab declared a grand
festival in honor of their gods. It was secretly arranged that Balaam
should persuade the Israelites to attend. They regarded him as a
prophet of God, and it was easy for him to accomplish his goal.
Great numbers of the people joined him in by going to the
festivities. Drawn in with music and dancing, and charmed by the
beauty of the women dedicated to heathen worship, they cast off
their loyalty to the true God. Wine clouded their senses and broke
down the barriers of self-control. Having defiled their consciences
by indecent acts, they were persuaded to bow down to idols. They
offered sacrifices on heathen altars and participated in degrading
rites.
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