Balaam was a prophet for profit. His kindred have multiplied on television and the internet. Wherever you find stacks of cash, you will likewise find profiteering preachers prepared to prevail over those who possess it. No wonder so many people push away from anything presented as the power or purpose of God. (Pardon me while I practice profiteering preaching prompts.)

You and I are not profiteering preachers. That is not a safe space. Balaam had direct encounters with God, but they were not of the pleasant, “I am well-pleased with you” kinds of encounters. God, in his grace and mercy, stopped Balaam from making a profit and from making a most certain mistake. 

The Christian Standard Bible says, “Look, I came out to oppose you, because I consider what you are doing to be evil.”

The New Living Translation says, “Look, I have come to block your way because you are stubbornly resisting me.”

The Message paraphrases God’s warning clearly and delightfully: “I have come here to block your way because you’re getting way ahead of yourself.”

Even those of us who are not profiteering prophets often exhibit the tendency to get ahead of ourselves and, all too often, God. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a good ol’ donkey who sees God better than we do to spare us from unnecessary disasters?

We don’t need a talking donkey to know God’s will and ways. We need to seek him simply and intentionally day by day, moment by moment. God is more willing to be heard than people are to listen. God is more willing to be seen than people are to see. God is more willing to direct our steps than we are to step out. 

Jesus often said, “Let him who has ears to hear, hear.” Your coach said it this way: “Listen up!” The Message paraphrases Jesus’ words this way: “Are you listening, really listening?”

Listen to God’s words of truth and life in your daily Bible reading plan. Listen to what he says with the intention of putting his directions into practice. Watch for his guiding hand as you go about your way. Go when God says, “Go.” Stop when God says, “Stop.” If donkeys can learn this, so can we. 

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I will be neither a profiteering preacher nor a talking donkey. 

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Our Father, when you say “No,” I will not go. When you say “Yes,” I will proceed. Life becomes a daring adventure when I follow where you lead. Amen.