“While Israel was staying in the Acacia Grove, the people began to have sexual relations with the women of Moab. The women invited them to the sacrifices for their gods, and the people ate and bowed in worship to their gods. So Israel aligned itself with Baal of Peor, and the LORD’s anger burned against Israel.” vs1-3

Satan cannot defeat us, unless he separates us from obedience. This is how he got Adam, and this is how he got Israel in Numbers 25.

In Numbers 23-24, Balaam, a false prophet, preached the truth of Israel’s indestructibility. He prophesied of gospel blessings upon God’s elect, which cannot be overthrown.

In Numbers 25, however, the Devil recognizes that a frontal attack won’t work. Therefore, he sneaks from behind and brings fornication and idolatry to the people. Once the breach is made, Israel, by her own hand, severs peace with God, His fury is aroused, and 23 thousand die [1 Cor 10:8]. If Phineas had not been zealous - slaying the fornicators - then the plague would have continued. This is what Paul means by repentance in 2 Cor 7:8-11; it is a God-given act dealing zealously with sin.

This is what we must do: Kill sin.

First, at the cross, realize that your sins were paid. You were crucified with Christ.

Secondly, by the Spirit, realize that God will help you. You are justified now by faith, even though you are evil [Rom 5:1.] Therefore, the Spirit will do what you cannot, which is to subdue the flesh and enable you to love [Rom 8:1-4].

Thirdly, go out and live for God’s glory. This is Christ’s instruction to the woman caught in adultery, “Neither do I condemn you. Go, sin no more.” This is God’s word to us now.

Finally, be careful about sin! Stay close to Christ. Confess it immediately. Know the damage of flies in the ointment, as your enemies look for you to fall.

“As dead flies bring a stench to the perfumer’s oil, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor.” --Eccl 10:1

Maintain uprightness in character and nearness to God. Then, nothing can stop you.