How should we respond when God questions our actions or intentions, as in Numbers 22:9? Setting the Scene “Then God came to Balaam and asked, ‘Who are these men with you?’ ” (Numbers 22:9) Why Does God Ask? Although He already knows every detail (Psalm 139:1–4), the Lord’s questions • expose hidden motives (Hebrews 4:12–13) • invite honest dialogue (Isaiah 1:18) • redirect wandering hearts (Proverbs 3:5–6) • provide a chance for repentance before discipline (Revelation 3:19) Desired Heart Posture • Humility — acknowledge His right to question us (Job 38:2–3) • Honesty — answer truthfully without excuses (Psalm 51:6) • Surrender — lay down our plans if they conflict with His (James 4:7) • Reverent fear — remember we are accountable to the Holy One (Ecclesiastes 12:13–14) Practical Ways to Respond Today 1. Stop and listen. Pause your agenda; let Scripture and prayer reveal what He is addressing. 2. Search your company. Balaam’s visitors symbolized compromise; evaluate the influences you allow (1 Corinthians 15:33). 3. Check motives. Ask, “Am I seeking God’s glory or my gain?” (1 Corinthians 10:31). 4. Align actions. Adjust immediately to match His revealed will (John 14:15). 5. Seek counsel. Invite mature believers to confirm what God is showing you (Proverbs 15:22). Encouraging Examples and Warnings • Adam and Eve hid—resulting in exile (Genesis 3:9–24). • Cain deflected—leading to lifelong wandering (Genesis 4:9–12). • Samuel answered, “Speak, for Your servant is listening”—and became a faithful prophet (1 Samuel 3:10). • Peter wept bitterly and was restored (Luke 22:61–62; John 21:15–17). Takeaway Snapshot When the Lord questions our actions or intentions, the safest and wisest response is humble, transparent surrender that swiftly aligns our lives with His revealed truth. He asks not because He lacks information, but because He seeks transformation. |
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