5th September 2025

The Donkey That Spoke

Then the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth.

Numbers 22:28

Today's Bible Reading: Numbers 22:21–31.

The book of Numbers records the mercenary exploits of Balaam and how God hijacked his plan to curse His people (see Numbers 22-24). Through another Balaam-devised strategy, however, the children of Israel were led astray. Three times in the New Testament, Balaam’s waywardness and the consequences thereof are used to warn and divert believers in Jesus from unrighteousness. 2 Peter 2:15 speaks of “the way of Balaam . . . who loved the wages of wickedness,” Jude 11 notes “Balaam’s error,” and Revelation 2:14, warns of “the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin.”

In today's reading. the Bible tells us of Balaam’s donkey. Balaam was a pagan prophet serving a king who intended to harm Israel. As Balaam was riding his donkey to assist the king, “the Lord opened the donkey’s mouth” and it spoke to Balaam (Numbers 22:28). The donkey’s speech was part of the way God opened “Balaam’s eyes” (v 31), warned him of imminent danger and kept him from harming His people.

If God can use a donkey for good purposes, it is not at all far-fetched to believe He can use you and me as well. Looking to Him and seeking His strength, we can accomplish more than we ever thought possible.

Prayer: I want to serve You, Abba Father! Use my hands, my feet, my mouth, whatever You like! Help me to live for You today. In Jesus name. Amen.