There is an interesting dilemma here. God told Balaam to go with these men (v20), but now the Lord is angry with Balaam for doing this (v22).

Balaam knew clearly it was not God’s will to go and help Balak (v12). But with the promise of more riches he goes back to God because although he knows he shouldn’t be going, he wants to. He is seeking to force God’s hand.

Another likely part to this is, that while God said go, but only do what I tell you (v20), Balaam in his heart was now willing to do anything for the riches. God knew his wicked heart and hence the angel coming to oppose him.

This famous incident, with the donkey three times stopping at the sight of the angel, is to humble Balaam and show  that in the spiritual realm this dumb animal could see better than he could (v23-33). Balaam acknowledges his sin (v34) and proceeds now with willingness to do God’s will (v35). Balaam tells Balak (v36-38) that he can only do what God permits.

Are you humble enough to accept that God always knows better than you, or do you try to twist, ignore and get your way around what is clearly God’s will? Think of how foolish and dangerous such behaviour is.  Pray about this.