“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.
even when we don’t realize we need it. (RBC)
