How does Numbers 22:28 demonstrate God's control over all creation, including animals? Setting the Scene Numbers 22:28: “Then the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you that you have beaten me these three times?’” God’s Intervention in Numbers 22:28 • The Lord directly “opened the mouth” of the donkey—no allegory, no exaggeration, just a straightforward statement of divine action. • God temporarily altered the animal’s natural limitations: vocal cords, understanding, and timing all bent to His command. • The miracle exposes Balaam’s spiritual blindness; the donkey saw the angel, while the prophet did not. What This Reveals About God’s Control • Total sovereignty—every creature, faculty, and moment lies under His rule. • God can employ any part of creation for moral correction and revelation. • Human plans buckle under divine authority (cf. Proverbs 19:21: “Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.”). Wider Biblical Evidence of God Directing Animals • Genesis 6:20 — Animals “came to Noah” at God’s command. • 1 Kings 17:4–6 — Ravens feed Elijah. • Jonah 1:17 — A “great fish” swallows and transports Jonah. • Daniel 6:22 — God shuts lions’ mouths. • Matthew 17:27 — A fish delivers a coin for the temple tax. • Luke 19:30–35 — An unbroken colt submits to Jesus. Takeaways for Today • Trust: The Creator who gave speech to a donkey can handle any circumstance. • Humility: If God can use a beast for His message, He can certainly use us—or bypass us. • Obedience: Ignoring divine warnings invites discipline, as Balaam learned. • Worship: Recognize and revere the absolute authority of the One to whom “the earth and its fullness” belong (Psalm 24:1). |
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