The Talking Donkey - Martin Wiles

Then the Lord caused the donkey to speak. “What have I done to you that deserves your beating me these three times?” Numbers 22:28 NLT

Although He has His normal means, God isn’t limited by how He can speak. And the talking donkey proves it.

My wife and I were once proud—well, sometimes proud—owners of a Deer Head Chihuahua named Twix. Since he was our daughter’s dog and had been passed around between her at-the-time boyfriend and my mom, we felt sorry for him, took him in, and put up with his cantankerous ways.

I never heard him speak audibly—and would question my state of mind if I did—but he had his ways of making his wishes known. With his eyes or by snorting, he communicated, “I need to go outside,” “I want a treat,” or “Will you recline so I can snuggle?” Over the years, I understood what he was trying to relate. Sometimes, I scolded him for snorting or staring, even though I did what he wanted.  

Balaam, on the other hand, actually heard his animal speak. He was a sorcerer hired by a pagan king to place a curse on God’s people. God allowed Balaam to do this but was angry he was doing it with a greedy spirit. So, God sent an angel to stand in Balaam’s path. Seeing the angel with the drawn sword, the donkey stopped in its tracks. After Balaam beat him a few times, God allowed the donkey to speak.

Donkeys and dogs aren’t God’s typical methods of delivering messages. His Word, other believers, prayer, and a strong heart feeling are. God is God, though, and can talk any way He chooses. Who am I to confine Him by building boxes He won’t appreciate?

The method or messenger isn’t as important as the message. With Balaam, God was confronting his greedy attitude and warning him again not to do something foolish.

God’s message to all believers is “If you love Me, you will keep my commandments.” While crucial, that message is too general. He has a specific word—many words—we need to hear throughout our lifetime. If we listen, He’ll direct our path every day. We’ll pray for His will for us—as well as for others and the world—to be done on earth daily even as it is in heaven. And when we listen, we’ll experience true peace and joy.

How can you listen for God to speak? Don’t make Him use a donkey to get your attention—although He can.

Father, tune my ears to hear You so I won’t miss a single opportunity You place in my paths. 

Tweetable: Are you hearing God? 

Don't forget to join the conversation. 

Thanks to all our faithful followers who share our posts! We also invite you to follow and like us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram. Help us spread God's encouragement through His Love Lines.