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Numbers 22:22-35 – The Donkey Speaks

We must not think that, because God does not by His providence restrain men from sin, therefore He approves of it, or that it is therefore not hateful to Him; He allows sin, and yet is angry at it. God lets Balaam know his displeasure against him by sending an angel. Angels are enemies to sin, and perhaps are employed more than we are aware of in preventing it, particularly in opposing those that have any evil plans against God’s church and people. How foolishly does Balaam boast that he is a man whose eyes are open, and that he sees the visions of the Almighty, when the donkey he rides on sees more than he does, his eyes being blinded with covetousness and ambition! Many have God against them, and His holy angels, but are not aware of it. Those who by wilful sin are running headlong into destruction are angry at those that try to prevent their ruin. It is common for those whose hearts are fully set to do evil to push on violently, and break through all the difficulties which God puts in their way to stop them.

Balaam finally notices the angel, and this does startle him. God has many ways of bringing down the hard and proud heart. When our eyes are opened we see what danger our sinful ways put us in, and how much it is for our good to be stopped, and what fools we are to quarrel with the circumstances or people that help to save our lives. When Balaam finds he can’t go forward, he is content (since there is no other option) to go back. There is no sign that his heart has changed. Many leave their sins only because their sins have left them. The angel seems to tell him that he will not only not be able to curse Israel, but will be forced to bless them. Thus God gives him fair warning, but he won’t take it; he goes with the princes of Balak.

Question

  1. Why does the donkey act the way it does?
  2. Does it seem that Balaam is really repentant?

Prayer Points

  1. Give thanks for the things God sends to keep us from sinning.
  2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
  3. Pray for family matters.