Bible Verse For Today - Numbers 22:28

"Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and it said to Balaam, ‘What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?’” (Numbers 22:28)

"When God Speaks: A Reflection on Numbers 22:28"

Numbers 22:28 recounts a miraculous and unexpected moment when God opens the mouth of Balaam’s donkey to speak. This extraordinary event reminds us that God communicates in ways we may not anticipate. It challenges us to stay attentive to His voice, be open to correction, and recognize that His guidance often comes in unexpected ways.

Meditation

Balaam was a prophet, but he allowed his heart to be swayed by greed and self-interest. Instead of obeying God fully, he entertained the idea of cursing Israel for personal gain. As he traveled with the Moabite officials, his donkey saw what he could not—an angel of the Lord blocking the path. When Balaam stubbornly tried to force his way forward, the donkey stopped, and after being beaten, God miraculously allowed the animal to speak.

This passage is filled with profound lessons about hearing God’s voice, humility, and the dangers of spiritual blindness.

1. God Can Speak in Unexpected Ways

Balaam never expected his donkey to talk, but God used this miraculous event to get his attention. This reminds us that God is not limited in how He speaks—He can use people, circumstances, nature, or even unusual situations to convey His message.

How often do we overlook God’s voice because we expect Him to speak only in certain ways? Are we attentive to His guidance, even when it comes from unexpected sources?

2. Spiritual Blindness Can Hinder Us

Though Balaam was a prophet, he failed to see what his donkey could see—the angel of the Lord standing in the way. His heart had become clouded by personal ambition, making him blind to God's warning.

Sometimes, our own desires, pride, or distractions can prevent us from recognizing when God is directing or correcting us. Are there areas in our lives where we may be resisting His leading because we are too focused on our own plans?

3. Humility Allows Us to Hear God Clearly

Balaam’s pride led him to react in anger, beating his donkey instead of seeking God’s direction. It wasn’t until he was confronted that he realized his mistake.

When we face challenges or delays, do we respond with humility, seeking God’s guidance? Or do we push forward in frustration, ignoring the signs He places in our path? A humble heart is open to correction and willing to change course when God redirects.

4. God’s Warnings Are Acts of Mercy

God didn’t allow Balaam’s journey to continue unchecked—He put obstacles in the way to protect him from destruction. Even when Balaam was resistant, God patiently guided him.

This teaches us that when God closes a door or places obstacles in our path, it may be His way of protecting us from harm. Instead of fighting against His will, we should pause and seek His direction.

5. Our Plans Must Align with God’s Will

Balaam’s story ultimately reveals the importance of submitting to God’s purpose rather than our own ambitions. Though he initially sought to benefit himself, God made it clear that only His will would prevail.

Are we aligning our goals with God’s plans, or are we trying to force our own way? Surrendering to His direction leads to peace, clarity, and blessing.

Bible verse of the Day 

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for speaking to us, even in unexpected ways. Help us to recognize Your voice, whether through people,

 circumstances, or the quiet prompting of Your Spirit. Open our eyes to see what You want us to see, and give us hearts that are humble and willing to listen.

Forgive us for the times we have ignored Your guidance or tried to push forward in our own strength. Teach us to surrender our plans and trust that Your way is always best. May we walk in obedience, knowing that You are leading us in love and wisdom.

Lord, if there are areas in our lives where we need correction, help us to receive it with humility. Let our hearts be sensitive to Your direction, and may our actions reflect Your will.

In Jesus' name,
Amen.