God is our CHRO at Work Sampel

If we insist on our ways, God may let us have our wish  

Though God is the CHRO, He still allows us to make career choices. God does not impose His desires upon us, though they are for our good. If we insist on our own path, God will not stop us. 

Balaam, son of Boer, a non-Israelite, was a prophet of Israel during its 40 years in the wilderness. While Israel was journeying towards the Promised Land, the Edomites and the Amorites attacked. Israel defeated both powerful kingdoms. The king of Moab, Balak son of Zippor, became wary as Israel was about to pass through his land. To avoid a fight and a possible defeat, Balak sent elders with a gift of money to invite Balaam to come to him and put a curse on Israel. When Balaam received the invitation, he asked the Lord if he should go. God said “no” and explained why. Balaam declined the invite. 

Balak made a second attempt. This time he sent more officials, and more distinguished ones, with even greater rewards. Balaam did not decline the invitation immediately but sought the Lord again. The Bible is silent on how much Balaam tried to convince God, but he was granted permission to go (Numbers 22:20). We can tell from verse 21 onwards that God was angry that Balaam went.  

This incident teaches us two principles. First, God does not impose His will upon us. As He did with Balaam, He gives us the choice to obey. Second, Balaam was enticed by the material rewards. That was why he enquired of the Lord a second time though God had already said “no” and the reason was obvious (Numbers 22:12). 

At times it can seem as if we have God's blessing to pursue a dream job, yet it might not be His will. In the marketplace, we may face occasions where people flatter or entice us with rewards and benefits to cause us to yield to their agenda. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and pride of life (1 John 2:16) can render us insensitive to God’s guidance and blind us to our God-given vocation. To avoid falling into Balaam’s error, we need to surrender our desires and ambitions to Him. 

Questions for reflection: 

1. Have you come across moments where you find it difficult to heed God’s direction? Why so? 

2. What enticements might cause you to lose focus of God’s call in your vocation?

May we be drawn to invite the Holy Spirit to renew our minds and desires in accordance with His will for He loves you dearly