Balaam and Balak could not curse Israel. But they successful plotted
to snare Israel in sin and brought God’s righteous wrath and judgment
upon them.

Thankfully, Phinehas, the priest and chief officer amongst the priests
(1Ch 9:20), stood up and purged the sin in the camp by spearing
Zimri & Cozbi. He was jealous with a zeal for the Lord. And in his zeal,
he turned away the wrath of God from the people of Israel.

Our Great High Priest Jesus Christ also averts God’s wrath due upon
sinners like us, but not by taking it out on His enemies, but by absorbing
it on Himself. He was nailed and then speared on his side. He now stands
before God pleading for us. He purged us from our sins by His zeal
for God’s name.