In what ways can we be more attentive to God's guidance today? An Unmissable Moment on the Road “ ‘Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to oppose you, for your way is contrary to me.’ ” (Numbers 22:32) Balaam’s path looked ordinary until the Angel of the LORD physically blocked it. God’s guidance was unmistakable—yet Balaam needed a talking donkey and a drawn sword before he paid attention. His experience reminds us that God still intervenes when our way is “contrary” to His. Why We Often Miss Divine Direction • Preoccupation with personal agendas (James 4:13–16) • Dullness toward repeated warnings (Hebrews 3:7–8) • Treating small compromises as harmless (Song of Songs 2:15) • Ignoring godly counsel (Proverbs 12:15) Ways to Tune Our Ears Today • Submit to Scripture daily – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) – Expect God’s Word to confront, correct, and equip (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Yield to the Spirit’s inner prompting – “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth.” (John 16:13) – A restless conscience or sudden clarity can be a spiritual “donkey” halting our plans. • Seek God in prayerful dependence – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God.” (James 1:5) – Praying before deciding cultivates sensitivity to red lights and green lights from heaven. • Pay attention to providential circumstances – Closed doors can be as loving as open ones (Acts 16:6–10). – Surprising obstacles may signal God’s protective “No” or redirecting “Not yet.” • Listen to trusted believers – “In the multitude of counselors there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14) – God often repeats His message through voices that echo Scripture. • Embrace prompt obedience – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5–6) – Clarity often follows commitment; obedience opens the next stretch of road. Guard Rails for Discernment • The Spirit never contradicts the written Word. • Peace that endures scrutiny and time confirms divine leading (Colossians 3:15). • God’s direction aligns with His character—holy, loving, truthful. Encouragement for the Journey God cares too much to let His children wander unchecked. Whether through Scripture, Spirit, saints, or circumstances, He still places heavenly roadblocks and signposts. Staying alert, humble, and ready to pivot keeps us on the path that pleases Him and spares us Balaam’s heartbreak. |
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