Obeying the Stipulations

Scripture: When he got up in the morning, Balaam saddled his donkey and went with the officials of Moab. But God was incensed that Balaam was going, and the Angel of the Lord took His stand on the path to oppose him ... The Angel of the Lord asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times? Look, I came out to oppose you, because what you are doing is evil in My sight." Numbers 22:21-22a,32

Observation: God tells Balaam to go with the men from Balak, and then immediately is "incensed" that he is going, sends an angel to stop him, and even threatens to kill him for doing what is evil. This is clearly one of those situations where the Bible doesn't provide all the details, but believes it has provided enough so the read - in context - can figure out what is taking place.

Balaam is a hired gun, but also believes in God. This is why he initially refuses to go. However, when God then permits him to go, in his heart he ignores the stipulation of the mission ... Balaam departs with the attitude that he is now permitted to go earn the fee promised by Balak. Instead, God is sending Balaam on HIS mission of blessing Israel, not on Balak's hired job of cursing Israel. For this reason, Balaam's going is evil.

Application: When we pray to God for direction, he will often tell us where to go, what to do, and what to say. Many consider 'going' the hard part. However, Balaam proves that going is just the first part ... obedience to the added instructions is often more difficult and even contrary to our own life's work.

It was evil for Balaam to go where God was sending on his own terms. He also needed to be ready to do and say what God was sending him for. Likewise, me going places - to my work, to Alpha, or wherever - isn't the completion of God's mission, it is the first step. I must also do what God wishes me to do, and say what he places in my mouth and in my heart. This produces rewards - including both joy and life itself - beyond any payment for a task.

Prayer: Lord, you reveal yourself is so many ways. May I be prepared to not only obey your instructions, but also your stipulations. May I follow you when you tell me go, and also obey you when you tell me to do and speak. Amen.