Introduction:
Balak, the son of Zippor, was the king of Moab during the time when the Israelites were journeying towards the Promised Land. His account is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, chapters 22 to 24. Balak's disappointment is a significant event that highlights the sovereignty of God over the affairs of nations and His protection over His chosen people, Israel.

Context:
As the Israelites encamped in the plains of Moab, Balak became exceedingly fearful of their presence. The Moabites had heard of the Israelites' victories over the Amorites and other neighboring nations, and Balak sought to protect his kingdom from a similar fate. In his desperation, Balak turned to Balaam, a renowned prophet, to curse the Israelites, hoping that such a curse would weaken them and allow Moab to defeat them.

The Summoning of Balaam:
Balak sent messengers to Balaam, offering him rewards and honors if he would come and curse Israel. Initially, Balaam sought the LORD's guidance, and God instructed him not to go with the Moabite officials, stating, "You are not to curse these people, for they are blessed" (Numbers 22:12). Despite this clear directive, Balak persisted, sending more distinguished officials with greater promises of reward.

Balaam's Journey:
Eventually, God permitted Balaam to go with the officials, but only under the condition that he would speak only what God commanded. As Balaam journeyed to meet Balak, he encountered the Angel of the LORD, who stood as an adversary in his path. This encounter served as a divine warning to Balaam to adhere strictly to God's words.

The Oracles of Balaam:
Upon his arrival, Balak took Balaam to various high places, hoping that a change in location might influence the outcome. However, each time Balaam attempted to curse Israel, God intervened, and Balaam instead pronounced blessings over the nation. In his first oracle, Balaam declared, "How can I curse what God has not cursed? How can I denounce what the LORD has not denounced?" (Numbers 23:8).

In subsequent oracles, Balaam continued to affirm the strength and future prosperity of Israel, much to Balak's frustration. Balaam's second oracle proclaimed, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" (Numbers 23:19). This statement underscored the unchangeable nature of God's promises to Israel.

Balak's Frustration:
Balak's disappointment grew with each oracle. Despite his efforts to manipulate the situation, he realized that Balaam could not curse those whom God had blessed. In a final attempt, Balak took Balaam to Peor, overlooking the wasteland, but once again, Balaam blessed Israel, foretelling their future victories and the coming of a great king from Jacob (Numbers 24:17).

Theological Significance:
Balak's disappointment serves as a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Despite human attempts to thwart His plans, God's purposes prevail. The narrative illustrates the futility of opposing God's will and the assurance that His promises to His people are irrevocable. Balak's inability to curse Israel highlights the divine protection over the nation and foreshadows the ultimate blessing that would come through Israel to all nations.