Numbers 22:23

“And the ass saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and the ass turned aside out of the way, and went into the field: and Balaam smote the ass, to turn her into the way.”

This verse is part of the narrative about Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet whom Balak, the king of Moab, sought to hire in order to curse the Israelites. Balak was concerned about the growing strength and numbers of the Israelites and wanted to hinder their progress. However, God intervened in this situation.

In this particular verse, we encounter a supernatural occurrence. Balaam was traveling on his donkey towards his intended destination, but he was unaware that the Angel of the Lord stood before him with a drawn sword, ready to block his way. While Balaam did not see the angel, his donkey did.

The donkey saw the angel and veered off the path, entering a field. Frustrated by the animal’s behavior, Balaam struck the donkey in an attempt to force it back onto the road. This sequence of events might seem peculiar, but it serves to emphasize the significance of what follows in the narrative.

Later in the story, God allows Balaam to see the angel and understand the reason behind the donkey’s actions. The angel explains that the donkey saved Balaam’s life by avoiding the angel’s presence three times. Balaam realizes his error and acknowledges the Lord’s sovereignty. Ultimately, instead of cursing the Israelites, Balaam blesses them at God’s command.

This passage teaches us a few lessons. First, it emphasizes the importance of being attentive to God’s guidance and discerning His presence. Although Balaam was a prophet, he initially failed to perceive the angel. The donkey, however, was more aware and responsive to the spiritual realm. It reminds us that God can use unconventional means to communicate and protect us.

Second, this story highlights the danger of allowing our desires and ambitions to blind us to God’s will. Balaam’s desire for personal gain initially led him down the wrong path, but the intervention of the donkey and the subsequent encounter with the angel served as reminders for Balaam to align his will with God’s.

Lastly, we see that God is merciful and can use unexpected circumstances to redirect us onto the right path. Despite Balaam’s initial intentions, God intervened to prevent him from making a disastrous choice. This reminds us of God’s faithfulness in guiding and correcting His people, even when they go astray.

Overall, Numbers 22:23 demonstrates the importance of spiritual discernment, the dangers of self-interest, and God’s loving intervention in our lives.