Who is Your Donkey?

Blue skies, abundant sunshine and a gentle breeze bring us a beautiful start to a new month today!  The weather is starting to feel a bit like fall is in the air and I find myself almost overwhelmed with gratitude for all of the blessings in my life.


Today's scripture reading comes from the Old Testament.  Read Numbers 22: 21-39.
I love verses 32- 34.  "The angel of the Lord asked him, "Why have you beaten your donkey these three times?  I have come here to oppose you because your path is a reckless one before me.  The donkey saw me and turned away from me these three times.  If she had not turned away, I would certainly have killed you by now, but I would have spared her. Balaam said to the angel of the Lord, "I have sinned.  I did not realize you were standing in the road to oppose me."


So many times, I think we hear what we want to hear.  We can have the very best of intentions but we can make enormous mistakes when we fail to realize what God is saying to us.  When we insist on OUR way versus obeying God's way.


Do you ever feel like Balaam?  I mean, you desire to know God and obey God but you are often in such a hurry and so focused on getting down a path that you don't realize it is not the right path.  Maybe you  have often beaten on that donkey?  


I firmly believe that God specifically placed my husband into my life as my donkey.  Does that mean he is an ass?  Couldn't resist!  But seriously, he is a godly man who is very wise.  He was truly a gift from God and is exactly what I need to help me understand God's unconditional love for me.  He lovingly tries to slow me down at times and change my direction and boy, do I know how to put up a fight!  


I pray we will all recognize obstacles that are put in our path by God.  And with that, I also pray that we can distinguish them from obstacles that are put in our path by Satan.  Remember that donkey was loyal, was good, and had never failed Balaam before.  Balaam had ridden that donkey his entire life.  Why now would the donkey refuse to carry him down a path, not once but three times?


Listen.  Pray.  Acknowledge truth.  If you are unsure as to who is placing those obstacles in your way, open up the bible and dig.  God never changes.  He is always the same.  He would never lead you down an unrighteous path.


Enjoy this day!  Choose joy!
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