Obedience Part 2
Read: Numbers 22
That night God came to Balaam and said, “Since these men have come to summon you, go with them, but do only what I tell you.” Numbers 22:20
One of the greatest ways to test the obedience of children is by playing the game “Simon Says”. A leader is designated as Simon, who instructs the group to carry out various actions. It seems easy enough. All you have to do is follow every order given which is prefaced by the phrase: “Simon says”. Staying in the game requires you to listen attentively, so you don’t move when Simon doesn’t say so.
In chapter 22 of the book of Numbers, we are introduced to a man named Balaam who is summoned by the king of the Moabites. Because the Israelites represent a great threat to the Moabites, King Balak plans to have Balaam put a curse on the children of Israel. He attempts to bribe Balaam with rewards, however Balaam’s response is that he can only say what God tells him (v.38). In this story, it’s God, not Simon, who dictates Balaam’s every move.
It’s interesting that Balaam was continuously sought out by the king of the Moabites because his words were known to be true. For this reason, whatever Balaam prophesied was known to come to pass and Balaam was believed to be able to bless and curse people effectively (v.6). However, he didn’t misappropriate his prophetic ability in order to meet Balak’s request. Rather, he was determined not to do anything of his own accord, acknowledging that his power truly only came from God (v.38).
As believers, obedience is a crucial aspect of our lives in this faith walk. Obedience is how we show God that we are committed to following Him throughout all eternity. Like Baalam, there will be times when we are noticed for our God-given gifts, talents, abilities and skills. People will pursue us relentlessly until they have the opportunity to meet with us to further their agendas. During these times, it may be tempting to respond based on how we think or feel about the situation. We may want to give people the benefit of the doubt and encourage them in their initiatives. Ultimately however, our resolve must be to only do what God says.
When we commit ourselves to doing exclusively what God says, we know we will never be in the wrong. More importantly, when we commit ourselves to saying and doing what God says, we will position ourselves to remain in the will of God. We never want to be in a place where we are expending our time, energy and resources going down a path in opposition to God. Because regardless of what we may be offered in exchange, it will never be worth it to disobey the Lord. We may not have the full picture, but through obedience we allow God to order our steps incrementally, even if He doesn’t reveal the entire game plan upfront.
Reflection: What are some opportunities you have been presented with? Did you respond by only doing what He told you to do?
Prayer: Father God, I thank You for communicating Your Word to me. I am grateful that You can always find a way to get Your message across to me. I resolve to be obedient God with anything I am presented with, and I resolve to only do what You say. In Jesus name, Amen.
Written by Deborah Nimoh
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