Introduction
Welcome, everyone, as we continue our journey through the "Biblical Encounters With Angels" series. Today, Pastor Bill Rains takes us to Numbers 22:21-35 for a unique encounter: "Dialogue With A Donkey!"
I. Detours: Choosing Our Path (Numbers 22:21-25)
Meet Balaam, a man with potential faith who veered off course. Faced with Moab's fear of Israel, King Balak sought Balaam's "curse" – unaware of his initial faith in God. Offering wealth, Balak tempted Balaam, who desired the reward more than God's will.
- Temptation's Detour: Balaam deviated from God's first command ("Don't curse them"), hoping for a richer offer and God's approval.
- Selfish Motives: Contrast God's clear message with Balaam's pursuit of personal gain.
II. Defiance: Ignoring God's Will (Numbers 22:26-35)
Ignoring God's repeated warnings, Balaam manipulated and persisted in his defiance. Despite angelic encounters and his donkey seeing the unseen danger (the Angel of the Lord with sword drawn), Balaam remained stubborn.
- Blind to Warnings: The Angel presented as an "adversary" to stop Balaam on his destructive path.
- Consequence of Defiance: Explore the dangers of ignoring God's voice and choosing our own desires.
III. Destination: Repentance or Consequences (Numbers 22:36-41)
The miraculous happens: the donkey speaks, confronting Balaam's defiance. God opens his eyes, revealing the danger and his sin. Can forgiveness overcome the consequences of his wrong choices?
- Turning Point: The donkey's voice and God's revelation force Balaam to face his choices.
- Repentance and Grace: The importance of turning back to God and accepting His forgiveness.
- Unanswered Questions: Was Balaam's repentance complete? Explore the potential consequences of ignoring God's grace.
Conclusion
Don't ignore God's call for your salvation! The Holy Spirit urges you to choose His path and avoid eternal separation. Today is the day to respond to His love and grace. Choosing God's path means rejecting detours and embracing His will. Seek His guidance, repent from wrong choices, and embrace the salvation He offers. Let's continue our journey with God, walking in His light.
