Some of the thoughts of our past that make us cringe revolve around the words whereby we “put our foot in our mouth.” Often said without forethought or passing through the filter of our common sense, we blurt out criticism or ignorant statements that hurt, or for which afterward we are embarrassed.
When the Lord granted permission for Balaam to go to Balak, his instruction to Balaam was, “Speak only what I tell you.” However, it appears Balaam had ulterior motives of greed, and thus when his pursuit was reckless, the Lord used a talking donkey to attempt to gain Balaam’s attention. It is astounding that Balaam did not view this communicating beast as “out of the ordinary” or as an act of God — the incident appears to be completely lost on him. The Hebrew root word for “opened the donkey’s mouth” and “opened Balaam’s eyes” are the same, thus indicating Balaam was no better than his donkey.
God speaks to us each day through the instruction of his Holy Spirit in prayer, his Word, circumstances and other people. Yet most often we miss the communication because of our own selfish pursuits or thoughts, and thus God must obtain our attention through “talking donkeys,” or incidents whereby we may be embarrassed or shamed. The key is a daily relationship and walk of humility before God prior to our being humiliated before the crowd.
Lord, guide me with your indwelling Spirit so I will continually walk humbly before you and will not need “talking donkeys” in order to center my attention on you.
Robin Buchanan
Extended Scripture: Numbers 20-23
