“WHEN GOD SAVES YOUR LIFE WITH A DONKEY”
(Numbers 22:1 – 24:25)
“But the angel of the Lord said to him, ’Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me.’” — Numbers 22:32 (NIV)
Imagine this: you’re heading down a road on a mission you’re sure will bring you success. Suddenly, your ride—a donkey, of all things—decides it’s done cooperating. It veers off course, crushes your foot, and finally just lays down, refusing to move. Frustrated, you lash out. Then, in a shocking twist, the donkey speaks! Balaam’s journey in Numbers 22 is both strange and deeply instructive. It’s a story about plans, pride, and how God sometimes uses unexpected means to get our attention.
Balaam, a pagan prophet, was hired by Balak, king of Moab, to curse Israel. Though God had already told Balaam not to go, Balaam persisted, hoping for a way to profit from Balak’s offer. On the way, God sent an angel to oppose him, and only his donkey—an ordinary beast of burden—could see the danger ahead.
Simple Truth: When our plans run contrary to God’s will, He may place obstacles in our path to redirect us toward His purpose.
Reflections & Applications:
1. God Opposes Reckless Plans: Balaam was determined to pursue his own gain despite God’s warning. Are you pursuing plans that might be contrary to God’s will?
Application: Pray for wisdom to discern whether your current plans align with God’s purpose. Be willing to pause and change direction if God places obstacles in your path.
2. God Uses Unlikely Messengers: God opened the donkey’s mouth to speak to Balaam, showing that He can use anyone or anything to get our attention. Are you ignoring unlikely sources of wisdom in your life?
Application: Be open to God’s voice, even if it comes from unexpected people or circumstances. Sometimes, God speaks through unusual means to guide us.
3. Blessing, Not Cursing: Despite Balaam’s initial intent to curse Israel, God only allowed him to speak blessings over His people. Are you trusting that God can turn opposition into a blessing in your life?
Application: When facing opposition, trust God can transform situations for your good and His glory. Speak words of blessing rather than complaint, knowing God’s plans cannot be thwarted.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for lovingly opposing us when we pursue reckless paths. Help me recognize when You are placing obstacles in my way to protect and redirect me. Give me ears to hear Your voice, even through unexpected messengers, and a heart that trusts in Your plans. May I walk in obedience and faith, speaking blessings wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About our Author
Pastor James M. Armpriester, Jr. worked as a molecular biologist at Procter & Gamble for ten years before becoming a pastor. With over thirty years of experience in ministry, he has been heavily involved in church planting and church health. He has served as a district director in Ohio and North Texas and has been a national leader in curriculum development, coaching, and consulting for church planting and revitalization. Pastor Jim has been the lead pastor of several churches, including New Hope in Cincinnati, Ohio, First Assembly of God in Niagara Falls, NY, and Transformation Life Church, which has multiple campuses in New Jersey.
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