Speaking Only What the Lord Says
Here in the book of Numbers we have a very unusual account of a Moabite prophet named Balaam pronouncing 3 blessings on Israel, even though the king of Moab requested that he pronounce a curse on them. It seems that the Lord was directing Him, even though he was a pagan prophet and that He spoke only what God wanted him to say, nothing more, nothing less. (Numbers 23:26) How ever all of this worked, Balaam should be a great example for all of us today.
It is very easy to want to please other people by what we say. We all want to be loved and accepted, so it is very tempting to cater to others and seek their favor, not ever saying anything that make them upset. The example of Balaam teaches us in no uncertain terms that if we do that, we are not doing God's will. We must speak all that the Lord wants us to say at any time. It may be hard to swallow, but we are being disobedient to do anything else. Therefore, I would encourage all of us to decide not to be people pleasers, but to please the Lord by delivering His full message, even if it is difficult for others to hear. That way, we speak the truth, and for those who will accept, we lead them in God's way, not the wrong way.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Numbers 25-27.
It is very easy to want to please other people by what we say. We all want to be loved and accepted, so it is very tempting to cater to others and seek their favor, not ever saying anything that make them upset. The example of Balaam teaches us in no uncertain terms that if we do that, we are not doing God's will. We must speak all that the Lord wants us to say at any time. It may be hard to swallow, but we are being disobedient to do anything else. Therefore, I would encourage all of us to decide not to be people pleasers, but to please the Lord by delivering His full message, even if it is difficult for others to hear. That way, we speak the truth, and for those who will accept, we lead them in God's way, not the wrong way.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Numbers 25-27.