In what ways can we ensure our actions align with God's will today? The Core Principle in Balaam’s Story “But the Angel of the LORD said to Balaam, ‘Go with the men, but speak only the word I tell you.’ So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.” (Numbers 22:35) God’s directive was unmistakable: Go where I permit, say only what I authorize. That same pattern—moving and speaking within divinely set boundaries—shows us how to keep our own decisions in sync with His will. Ground Yourself in What God Has Already Said • Scripture is the objective standard for every choice. • “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Before acting, ask, “Does this line up with the clear teaching of the Word?” If it contradicts even a single verse, the decision is already made: don’t do it. Guard Your Motives Before You Move • Balaam wanted the reward Balak offered; the Lord exposed that hidden greed (Numbers 22:22). • “All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the motives.” (Proverbs 16:2) • Invite the Spirit to search your heart. When selfish ambition surfaces, repent and realign. Listen for the Spirit’s Checks and Promptings • God used an angel, a donkey, and finally a spoken warning to get Balaam’s attention. • Today, He indwells believers: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) • Pay attention to holy hesitations, sudden conviction, or inner peace. These gentle nudges keep you within His lane. Watch Your Words—They Steer Your Walk • Balaam’s lips had to echo God verbatim. • “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight.” (Psalm 19:14) • Before speaking, filter every sentence through: Is this true? Is it loving? Is it necessary for God’s purpose? Pursue Obedience Over Opportunity • The journey with Balak’s princes looked lucrative, yet God limited what Balaam could do once he arrived. • “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22) • Never advance just because a door is open; advance only when obedience clearly points that way. Keep a Circle of God-Honoring Accountability • Balaam traveled with pagans and faced no human peer to confront him when he drifted. • “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17) • Invite mature believers to question, counsel, and, when needed, lovingly correct your plans. Evaluate Frequently, Repent Quickly • Balaam’s course correction came only after a dramatic angelic appearance. We have daily access to conviction—use it early. • “Search me, O God, and know my heart… See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24) • Short accounts with God keep small missteps from becoming disastrous detours. Expect God to Redirect Mid-Journey • The angel blocked Balaam’s path three times; God reserves the right to halt or reroute us. • “In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9) • Hold plans loosely. When doors slam or guidance shifts, trust that the Shepherd is steering you toward better pastures. Live Every Moment Under Christ’s Lordship • “Whatever you do, in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17) • Align decisions, schedules, purchases, relationships, and dreams with one overarching aim: to reflect His character and extend His kingdom. Following Balaam’s lesson—go only where God leads and say only what He inspires—keeps today’s disciples safely inside the will of the One who still speaks, still guides, and never misdirects. |
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