Jared’s Commentary:

1) We are often eager to listen to what god says until it’s not what we want to hear; it’s then where instead of the submissive will of god we follow we seek for our own outcome, want gods forgiveness and desire the permissive will of god

2) How many things have we been spared from yet not even really acknowledging it was god? Reminds me of this moment where a donkey miraculously avoids the angel with the sword that balaam could not see. And if that were not enough, balaam not only does not see it but instead strikes the donkey in anger. He was worried about how funny he looked.

3) Sometimes god is trying to lead us from harm – but we are not discerning of it and are trying to preserve our reputations in other ways and miss the miraculous going on in our lives.

4) The donkey speaks! Wow! And rather than seeing god in this with immediate awe balaam argues back. How silly! Yet do we not often argue back at gods plan rather than seeing him in it?

5) Finally, after he sees the angel that had been revealed by the animal we find he finally repents

6) God is working in us continually and will send the miraculous to bend our paths. If we will only learn to see god in all things more clearly we can be sure to perform gods will and not our own.

7) When seeking god follow what you hear and do not rebel against it because it is not what you want. Avoid further troubles by yielding to his instruction. Resist the enemies temptations and hold your ground!

8) Before you head too far God wants to spare you from many troubles. Don’t wait until the donkey has to get your attention!!!