Don’t Be A Fool, Learn From The Donkey - Life Lessons From BalaamSample

Balaam was a wolf in sheep’s clothing

Balaam serves as a prototype for false teachers who will arise in the last days and trouble the Christian church. Every Old and New Testament reference to Balaam subsequent to the historical record of Numbers 22-24 is a condemnation of Balaam or those who listen to or emulate him.

John MacArthur comments: “The prophet’s apostasy not only assaulted God’s holiness, but it also threatened the very existence of His chosen people. Although Balaam knew better, he allowed fleshly impulses to guide his choices. And, as a result, he suffered the ultimate penalty of death.”

What are the lessons that we can learn from his life?

1. We cannot put ourselves first instead of God.

Balaam was constantly putting himself first. Balaam was looking out for Balaam. He wanted money, prestige, position. It appeared as if he was honoring God, but it was only with his lips and not with his heart.

Many are following Jesus purely for what they can get out of Him. Are you?

2. You cannot be part of the world and yet belong to Christ. 

Balaam’s focus was on the world and not God. He gave the appearance of serving God, but he did what he wanted to do. 

Today, there are people who give the appearance of righteousness by coming to church services, put on their church faces, but they follow the example of Balaam by living like the world the rest of the week. Is there a difference in your lifestyle on Sunday and the rest of the week?

3. We can’t deceive God.

On the surface, Balaam appeared to honor God. “I can only speak what You want me to speak.”, but behind the scenes, he did exactly the opposite.

Do you compromise on obeying God and justify yourself by saying “everyone does it” or “God will overlook this sin”.

4. God is concerned with what we do more than what we say we will do. 

We deceive ourselves if we think that it’s only about what we say we are going to do because God knows our hearts. Unlike what Balaam thought, God knew exactly what he was going to do. God knows our minds. He knows our thoughts. He knows our hearts. 

How often have you promised to follow and obey God? Are you living God’s way and not just talking about it?

Be a doer and not a hearer only.

Quote: 

“Be wary of false preachers who smile a lot, dripping with practiced sincerity. Chances are they are out to rip you off some way or other. Don’t be impressed with charisma; look for character.” Matthew 7:15 (The Message)

Prayer: 

Lord I pray that in these last days, I would be careful and not be led astray by false teachers. Help me to be sensitive to Your discerning voice. Amen