Through Numbers Sample

Implicit Obedience 

Balaam was summoned by the king of Moab to curse the children of Israel. Balaam asked the men to spend the night so that he could inquire of God. God told Balaam not to go with them and not put a curse on them because they were blessed. Balaam obeyed, sending the men away, telling them that God had forbidden him to go. 

Balak, the king of Moab, sent officials higher in rank and more in number to summon Balaam again. Instead of telling them what the Lord had told him, Balaam decided to check back with God. Many a time, we fall into the pressure of the world when people intimidate us. We need to resolve the conflict of being courteous and kind to people, and at the same time standing firm in what God wants us to do. Sometimes we join those in doing things against God and God is not pleased with it. In God's sight, we are part of the sin they are committing.

The second time, God allows Balaam to go with a condition, that he would only follow God's instructions. In the morning, Balaam leaves with the men from Balaak. Now God was angry that Balaam went. Didn't God give him conditional permission? God wants us to trust Him and stand up for what He wants us to do. It doesn't make sense to ask God the second time when He has given His opinion already. Remember the choice is ours to follow or do it our way. 

Instead of setting his eyes on God and the angel, Balaam was mad with the donkey who saved his life three times. God used a donkey that had his eyes on the angel and protected his master. Many a time we hurt the ones trying to protect us. When our eyes are on God, we will obey His instructions, whatever it may be. This will protect us from and we will not hurt those protecting us.

Thought for the day: 

Ponder how to move forward in those situations where you are trying to change God's decision.

Lord, help me to accept your decision and move forward in life.

Additional Reading - Numbers 22-24