Donkey Dumb

... but received a rebuke for his transgression: a speechless donkey spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet's madness. - 2 Peter 2:16

The story of Balaam, found in Numbers 22, is a fascinating one. It reveals just how stubborn a person can be in the presence of a clear command from God.

A few days ago, I wrote about the danger of hidden faults, such as impure motives disguised by "right" actions. In Balaam, one sees instead an intentional desire to avoid the express, direct command of a Sovereign God. One also sees God's sense of humor in choosing the very "picture" of obstinance (a donkey) to magnify Balaam's stubborn will. Even a donkey knows and obeys the voice of God!

Henry Blackaby, in his book Experiencing God, highlighted the biblical truth that God speaks through the Bible, prayer, His church, and even circumstances to make His purposes known. He even retains the right to speak directly, if He so chooses. Whenever we ignore His voice, however His will is communicated, it is no less than an act of rebellion. If we hear Him, then we really need to heed Him.

Otherwise, we're just dumber than a donkey.

There are few people so stubborn in their atheism who when danger is pressing in will not acknowledge the divine power. - Plato