How can we apply Balaam's example of following God's will in our lives? Setting the Scene: Balaam on the Heights “Build for me seven altars here and prepare for me seven bulls and seven rams.” (Numbers 23:29) Balak wants a curse; Balaam insists on waiting for God’s word. In this moment he models the tension every believer feels: voices around us pull one way, the Lord pulls another. Lesson 1: Seek Clear Direction Before Moving • Balaam pauses and builds altars three separate times (22:41–23:30) instead of rushing to speak. • Numbers 22:18: “I could not go beyond the command of the LORD.” • Practical take-away: – Slow down big decisions; create space for Scripture, prayer, and wise counsel (Proverbs 3:5-6). – Ask for specific guidance—James 1:5 promises God “gives generously.” Lesson 2: Speak Only What God Gives • Balaam’s repeated refrain: “Must I not speak what the LORD puts in my mouth?” (Numbers 23:12). • John 10:27: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” • Practical take-away: – Filter opinions, social media posts, even well-meaning advice through Scripture. – Refuse to promote anything that contradicts God’s revealed Word. Lesson 3: Align Persistence with Obedience • Each new altar is an act of dogged alignment: “Let me try again; maybe the LORD will speak.” • Psalm 119:105: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Practical take-away: – Keep returning to the Word until direction becomes clear. – Obedience often requires repeated, small acts of faithfulness, not one-time heroics. Lesson 4: Sacrifice Reveals Priorities • Seven bulls and seven rams cost real money—Balaam’s actions say, “God’s voice is worth any price.” • Romans 12:1: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice…this is your spiritual service of worship.” • Practical take-away: – Budget time, energy, and resources so God is first, not last. – Evaluate: does my calendar show the same priority Balaam showed on that mountain? Lesson 5: Beware the Drift After Obedience • Balaam eventually counseled Moab to seduce Israel (Numbers 31:16; 2 Peter 2:15). • Obedience today doesn’t guarantee obedience tomorrow. • Practical take-away: – Guard the heart continually—Proverbs 4:23. – Stay accountable; invite trusted believers to speak into blind spots. Putting It Into Practice Today • Carve out daily, unhurried Scripture time for hearing God’s voice. • Commit to speak only what aligns with the Bible—no exceptions, even under pressure. • Re-evaluate priorities monthly: is my giving, serving, and scheduling sacrificial or convenient? • Keep short accounts with the Lord; repent quickly when motives drift. Following Balaam’s early example means relentless focus on God’s word, costly obedience, and ongoing vigilance. Stay on the heights with Him, and His will becomes clear. |
    |