– Setbacks Or Red Flags?
BRD REFLECTIONS:
Numbers 22 and Psalm 107:17-43 (NIV)
(Andrew Ng, Small Group Leader)
READ:
Numbers 22 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
In Numbers 22, Balaam, a pagan prophet, was asked by the Moabites to curse the Israelites who were approaching their land. Balaam inquired of the Lord, who firmly told Balaam not to go with the Moabites or to put a curse on the Israelites, because they were blessed by the Lord (v12). Despite knowing the Lord’s directions on this matter, when the Moabites returned, this time offering to reward Balaam handsomely if he complied, Balaam again inquired of the Lord (v18-19).
The Lord was angry that Balaam had decided to go with the Moabites and sent an angel to oppose him at three points of his journey. While Balaam himself was unable to see the angel and God’s divine opposition, his donkey could, and tried to steer Balaam away. Balaam reacted in anger and started hitting his donkey, and even when his donkey miraculously started speaking, Balaam did not turn back from his course (v27 – 29). Only after his eyes were opened to see the angel of the Lord with his sword drawn standing in his way did Balaam acknowledge his sin against God (v31).
APPLY:
When I first read Numbers 22, I thought that I could never be so blind to God’s will as Balaam and openly defy clear instructions from God. After all, God had spoken to him directly, sent an angel down to block his path and miraculously allowed his donkey to speak. What clearer sign could a person ask for? However, upon deeper reflection, I realised that it is only human nature to be as stubborn as Balaam. Despite hearing God’s will, Balaam was seduced by the Moabites’ offer of gold and silver. Similarly, one’s heart can easily be led astray by the temptations of life. Thus, not only is it important to be able to discern God’s will in my life, it is equally important to obey His will.
DO:
[1] Discern God’s will
God created me with free will to make decisions in my life – whether good or bad. At the same time, I serve a living God who in all things works for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28) and can intervene when I go astray. I must be aware of when God is speaking to me. Not every obstacle in my life may be a “setback” from the devil, but in some cases, may actually be a “red flag” or warning from God for me to change course. This is ultimately a matter of discerning God’s voice and direction in my life, and I take comfort knowing that if I seek the Lord, I will find Him (Matthew 7:7). If God made His voice and will known to Balaam, a greedy pagan prophet, how much more will he speak to His own beloved children?
[2] Do God’s will
After discerning the will of God, it is equally important to do His will, and not persist down paths that are in opposition to His will. This certainly isn’t easy, and I pray that I do not fall into temptation, for the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matthew 26:40-43).
PRAY:
O Lord, my heart may tend to be easily led astray by the temptations of this world. Even though you are always present in my life, I have not always sought your counsel nor obeyed your will and guidance in my life. I pray that you may open my ears to hear your voice, soften my heart to accept your guidance, and give me strength to do your will. I pray that I may always put the cross before me, and the world behind me, to serve you in joyful obedience. Amen.
