DAILY READINGS: Judg. 2:6 to 3:4; Isa. 22:15 to 23:18; 1 Cor. 2
Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following
the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of
unrighteousness. 2 Peter 2:15
Balaam stumbled badly where once he stood strong. In this verse,
we are told plainly that he loved the “wages of unrighteousness.”
This was not always so. The actual biblical context (Num. 22:1-20)
speaks of his initial purity regarding money—even to the extent of
refusing a palace full of silver and gold (Num. 22:18). One wonders
where and when he slipped from this high standard? It is a clear-cut
warning for all of us, but particularly leaders. Set yourself free from
the love of money! —Craig Funston
I am resolved no longer to linger, charmed by the world’s delight;
Things that are higher, things that are nobler—these have captured my sight.
—P. H.