Christian Art | Angels In The Bible | Audio King James Bible | KJV | Love Revealed By Jesus Christ
Numbers 22:22-35 | King James Audio Bible | Powerful Prayer
‘And God’s anger was kindled because he [Balaam] went: and the angel of the LORD stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him. 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. But the angel of the LORD stood in a path of the vineyards, a wall being on this side, and a wall on that side. And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she thrust herself unto the wall, and crushed Balaam’s foot against the wall: and he smote her again. And the angel of the LORD went further, and stood in a narrow place, where was no way to turn either to the right hand or to the left. And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam’s anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff. And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times? And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee. And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? and he said, Nay. Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face. And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me: And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times: unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive. And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me: now therefore, if it displease thee, I will get me back again. And the angel of the LORD said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.’ (Numbers 22:22-35, KJV)
Explanation of Context | And The Ass Saw The Angel Standing In The Way | Love Revealed By Jesus
In this passage, the prophet Balaam was on his way to meet King Balak of Moab, who sought to hire Balaam to curse the Israelites. However, God was displeased with Balaam’s intentions and sent an angel to stand in his path to prevent him from proceeding further. Unaware of the angel’s presence, Balaam’s donkey saw the angel with a drawn sword and reacted fearfully, trying to avoid the dangerous path. Balaam, frustrated by the donkey’s behaviour, struck her three times. Miraculously, the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth, and she spoke to Balaam, questioning his actions. Eventually, God allowed Balaam to see the angel, who revealed the true reason for his obstruction.
Reflection – Divine Intervention and Humility | Meditations On The Love Of Jesus Christ
The account of the angel and the donkey – the ass reminds us of God’s sovereignty. God used a simple ass to communicate His message and to prevent Balaam from pursuing his wicked intentions. God can use the most unexpected means to get our attention and to guide us away from harmful paths.
This story teaches humility and openness to God’s leading. Balaam, initially blinded by his own desires, became angry with the ass not realizing the greater purpose behind her actions. When confronted with the truth, Balaam humbled himself, acknowledging his sin and changing his course.
In relationship with God, we are asked to remain open to divine guidance, even if it comes through seemingly insignificant or unexpected sources. Pride and self-righteousness blind us from God’s purposes. Genuine humility allows us to discern God’s leading our ways.
Powerful Prayer To Jesus | Love Revealed By Jesus | And The Ass Saw The Angel
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for the reminder that your ways are higher than ours and that you use the most unexpected means to guide us along the right path. Help me to be attentive to your leading and to accept your divine intervention in my life.
Just as you used a donkey – the ass to deliver your message, I pray that you open my heart and mind to hear your voice, even when it comes from unexpected sources. Remove any pride or self-righteousness that may hinder me from an acceptance of your guidance.
Like Balaam, I acknowledge that I may be blinded by desires and intentions. Grant the grace to be humble and receptive to your correction, so that I may align life with your perfect will.
May I always seek your guidance in our journey and trust that your ways are best, even when they differ from our own plans. Help everyone to submit to your leading with joy and obedience, knowing that your love is immeasurable.
In your precious name, I pray.
Amen.
