John Calvin Commentary Numbers 24:14

"And now, behold, I go unto my people: come, [and] I will advertise thee what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days." — Numbers 24:14 (ASV)

And now, behold, I go unto my people. Since the counsel that he gave is not expressly mentioned here,¹⁷⁴ it is the opinion of some that his address is unfinished, and they suppose that he referred to the cunning advice so destructive to the people, which will be related shortly: that is, that the Moabite women should prostitute themselves. Others, however, imagine that Balaam counseled Balak to remain quiet, since the prosperity of the Israelites would do no harm to the Moabites in his lifetime.

I, however, take it simply to mean teaching, or admonishing what would be for his advantage. Thus he commends his prophecy, so that Balak may willingly submit to it. Still, when he speaks of the latter days, he signifies that there was no cause for Balak himself to fear or be anxious, since the punishment of his nation would be deferred for a long time.

In the meantime, we see what Balak had gained by his trouble. For, whereas he had until now only heard the people of Israel blessed, he is now compelled to listen to what is more painful still: namely, the ruin of his own nation. This is the reward of those who strive against God.

¹⁷⁴ C. translates איעצך, which, which A. V. renders, “I will advertise thee,” renders, “I will advertise thee,” consulam tibi, I will counsel thee: so also Ainsworth.I will counsel thee: so also Ainsworth.