How can we ensure we are not "standing in the road" against God? Opening Snapshot: Balaam and the Angel “Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between the vineyards, with walls on both sides… ‘Look, I have come out to oppose you, because your way is a reckless one before Me.’ ” (Numbers 22:24, 32) Balaam thought he was moving ahead with God’s blessing, yet he was actually blocking the very path the Lord had marked. His donkey saw the danger before he did! What Does “Standing in the Road” Against God Look Like? • Pressing forward with a plan God has already checked in His Word • Ignoring repeated warnings from Scripture, conscience, or wise believers • Using religious language to mask selfish motives (cf. Isaiah 29:13) • Expecting God to adjust to our timetable or preferences Warning Lights on the Dashboard • Repeated frustration and closed doors that force detours (Numbers 22:26) • An uneasy spirit even when circumstances seem favorable (Psalm 32:3-4) • Counsel from mature believers that confronts our direction (Proverbs 15:22) • Scripture passages that “follow” us, highlighting the same issue (Hebrews 4:12) Steps to Stay Off the Wrong Side of the Road 1. Surrender the steering wheel daily “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5) 2. Weigh every desire by the clear counsel of Scripture “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) 3. Welcome godly accountability “Two are better than one… If either of them falls, the one can help the other up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) 4. Respond quickly to conviction “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” (1 John 1:9) 5. Cultivate a listening posture “In repentance and rest you will be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15) Aligning Desires with God’s Purposes Checklist for decisions: • Does this align with Christ’s character? (Philippians 2:5) • Will it advance the gospel or my ego? (1 Corinthians 10:31) • Can I thank God wholeheartedly for it? (Colossians 3:17) • Would it stand in the light at Christ’s judgment seat? (2 Corinthians 5:10) Walking in Step with the Spirit “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) Staying in step means quick obedience, soft hearts, and open hands. The Spirit never leads us to quarrel with the Father’s will. Encouragement for the Journey Peter learned this lesson: “If God gave them the same gift … who was I to stand in God’s way?” (Acts 11:17). When we yield, God turns potential roadblocks into on-ramps for blessing. The safest place is always behind Him, never in front. |
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