“Under it. Over it. Around it. Through it. Nothing will stop me from
doing it.” I often hear people express this kind of attitude when they get an
idea or see an opportunity that seems good or profitable. They devote all of
their resources to getting it done.
As evidence that this way of thinking may be flawed, I call as my
witness a donkey—a donkey belonging to a man named Balaam.
Balaam was offered a profitable assignment from a neighboring king, and
he inquired of God for permission to accept it (Num. 22). When God said no, the
king’s representatives made a better offer. Thinking God might change His mind,
Balaam asked again. God granted permission for Balaam to go with them but with
strict conditions. God knew Balaam’s heart and was not pleased with him, so He
placed His Angel in the way. Balaam couldn’t see the Angel but his donkey
could. When the donkey refused to continue, Balaam became angry with the animal
for blocking his progress.
Balaam’s story teaches us that not every obstacle is meant to be
overcome. Some are placed by God to keep us from doing something foolish. When
our plans are hindered, we shouldn’t assume that it’s Satan trying to stop us.
It might be God trying to protect us.
God is always protecting us –
even when we don’t realize we need it. (RBC)
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