How does Balaam's refusal reflect the importance of prioritizing God's will over man's? The Setting and the Statement “So Balaam got up in the morning and said to Balaq’s princes, ‘Go back to your own land, for the LORD has refused to let me go with you.’ ” (Numbers 22:13) Pressure from Men Versus Direction from God • Balak’s offer: wealth, position, national honor (22:17). • God’s command: “You are not to curse these people, for they are blessed” (22:12). • Balaam’s immediate response: he dismisses the envoys, choosing God’s word over human reward. Scripture Echoes: Obedience Over Man’s Applause • Acts 5:29 — “Peter and the other apostles replied, ‘We must obey God rather than men.’” • 1 Samuel 15:22 — “Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness than the fat of rams.” • Proverbs 19:21 — “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.” • Matthew 6:24 — “You cannot serve both God and money.” • Galatians 1:10 — “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” • James 4:15 — “Instead, you ought to say, ‘If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.’” What Balaam’s Refusal Shows About Priorities • God’s revealed will is non-negotiable, even when lucrative alternatives appear. • True authority flows from the One who blesses and curses; human rulers can only request. • Momentary loss (turning down Balak’s riches) protects against lifelong compromise. • Obedience establishes a witness: the messengers departed knowing God had spoken. Practical Takeaways for Today • Measure every invitation—job, relationship, platform—against clear scriptural commands. • When God’s Word forbids a path, refusal is faithfulness, not failure. • Say “no” promptly; delayed obedience invites further temptation. • Trust the Lord to supply what you release for His sake (Philippians 4:19). • Keep seeking God’s guidance daily; Balaam’s later wavering (22:19) warns that one good choice must be followed by continual submission. |
    |