July 24, 2021
Scripture: Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?” And Balaam said to the donkey, “Because you have made a fool of me. I wish I had a sword in my hand, for then I would kill you.” Numbers 22:28-29 ESV
Observation: This is the best example of ironic humor in all of Scripture—albeit unintentional. That Balaam would discourse with a talking donkey and accuse the donkey of making him look like a fool is brilliant. Balaam needed no help; he was acting foolishly on his own accord. Having said that, the narrative would appear to indicate that Balaam was following the Lord’s will. But knowing from the start that God did not want him to go with Balak’s messengers nor curse Israel, he should have turned away any further requests.
Takeaway: Here we see the nature of sin. It revisits us in other subtle forms and invites us to travel its path. And if we entertain its enticing requests, we too will act like the fool.
Prayer: Father God, in your mercy, help us to tread carefully and listen to your Spirit and others when we are traveling sin’s path and acting foolishly. Amen.
Rev. Gordon Green, M.Div., M.A. Counseling
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