When we think about how God works through people, we often picture spiritual giants: prophets, apostles, and leaders with great faith and wisdom. But the story of Balaam’s donkey in Numbers 22 reminds us of an important truth: God doesn’t need us to be extraordinary—He just needs us to be available. Yes, God can use anyone—even an old ass—to accomplish great things.
The Story of Balaam and His Donkey
The story of Balaam and his donkey takes place as the Israelites are nearing the Promised Land. Balak, the king of Moab, is terrified of Israel’s growing strength and hires Balaam, a pagan prophet, to curse them. Though Balaam initially refuses after consulting God, he eventually agrees to go after being pressured by Balak’s messengers—and God allows it, but with a warning to only speak what He commands.
As Balaam sets off on his journey, God sends an angel to block his path. Balaam doesn’t see the angel, but his donkey does, and it reacts by stopping, veering off the road, and even lying down. Frustrated, Balaam beats the donkey three times. Finally, God opens the donkey’s mouth, and it speaks to Balaam:
“What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?” (Numbers 22:28)
In that moment, Balaam’s eyes are opened, and he sees the angel standing in the path, sword drawn, ready to strike him. The angel rebukes Balaam, warning him to only say what God commands. Balaam, humbled and repentant, continues on his journey, ultimately blessing Israel instead of cursing them.
Key Lessons from Balaam’s Donkey
This peculiar story might seem bizarre at first glance, but it holds profound lessons for us today. Here are three key takeaways that highlight how God can use anyone—or anything—for His purposes:
1. God Uses the Unexpected
Balaam’s donkey is one of the most unexpected characters in Scripture. It’s not every day that a donkey speaks, let alone serves as the voice of God. This story reminds us that God delights in using the unexpected to fulfill His plans.
The Bible is full of examples of unlikely heroes:
- Moses was a stuttering shepherd.
- David was an overlooked shepherd boy.
- Rahab was a prostitute.
- Peter was a fisherman prone to speaking before thinking.
If God can use a donkey to deliver a message, what excuse do we have for thinking we’re unqualified? Often, it’s not about our ability but our availability. When we’re willing to be used by God, He can accomplish great things through us, regardless of our limitations.
2. God Works Through the Humble
The donkey, a humble and lowly animal, became a tool in God’s hands. It didn’t argue, resist, or question—it simply did what it was created to do.
In contrast, Balaam, a prophet who was supposed to be attuned to God’s will, was blinded by his pride and greed. He couldn’t see the angel in his path, but the donkey could. This inversion of roles underscores a powerful biblical principle:
“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.” (James 4:6)
God doesn’t require us to be extraordinary. He values humility and obedience. The donkey’s actions remind us that even the simplest, most overlooked individuals can become instruments of God’s grace when they submit to His will.
3. God’s Plans Cannot Be Thwarted
Despite Balaam’s initial intentions to curse Israel, God’s plan prevailed. The angel’s intervention and the donkey’s actions ensured that Balaam could only speak blessings over God’s people.
This is a comforting reminder that God is sovereign. No matter how chaotic or uncertain things may seem, His purposes will always stand. As Isaiah 46:10 says:
“My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.”
Even when we feel unworthy or inadequate, we can trust that God is in control and will accomplish His will through us—even if we’re the last person anyone would expect Him to use.
Applying Balaam’s Donkey to Our Lives
So, what does this ancient story have to do with us today? Let’s explore how the lessons from Balaam’s donkey can inspire and challenge us in our faith journeys:
1. Stop Making Excuses
How often do we disqualify ourselves from serving God because we feel inadequate? We might say things like:
- “I don’t have the right skills.”
- “I’m not educated enough.”
- “I’ve made too many mistakes.”
But the story of Balaam’s donkey blows those excuses out of the water. If God can use a stubborn, lowly animal to speak truth and accomplish His will, He can certainly use you. Your past, your weaknesses, and your imperfections don’t disqualify you.
2. Be Humble and Obedient
Humility and obedience are key to being used by God. The donkey didn’t try to be something it wasn’t—it simply fulfilled the role God gave it. In contrast, Balaam let his pride and ambition cloud his judgment.
Ask yourself:
- Am I willing to obey God, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable?
- Am I seeking His will above my own desires?
3. Trust God’s Sovereignty
Even when circumstances seem out of control, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes. Balaam’s donkey reminds us that God’s plans will always prevail.
When you’re faced with challenges or uncertainties, remember that God can use you right where you are. He doesn’t require perfection—He simply asks for faith and trust.
Encouragement for the Church
This story also carries a powerful message for the church. Too often, we idolize charismatic leaders, assuming that only the “most qualified” can accomplish great things for God. But Balaam’s donkey shows us that God works through the humble and unexpected.
The church doesn’t need perfect people; it needs faithful people. When we each step into the role God has given us, regardless of how insignificant it may seem, we contribute to His kingdom in profound ways.
A Call to Action
As we reflect on Balaam’s donkey, let’s take this as a challenge:
- Embrace Your Role: Whether you feel like a king or a donkey, remember that God has a purpose for you. Be faithful in the role He’s given you, no matter how small it may seem.
- Practice Humility: Like the donkey, be willing to listen, obey, and act as God leads. Don’t let pride or fear hold you back from being used by Him.
- Trust God’s Plan: Even when you don’t see the bigger picture, trust that God is working through you for His glory.
The story of Balaam’s donkey reminds us that God can use anyone—or anything—for His purposes. He doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
If you’ve ever doubted your ability to make a difference, take heart in this truth: God doesn’t need you to be extraordinary. He simply needs you to be available, obedient, and willing to trust Him.
So the next time you feel like an “old ass” unworthy of God’s work, remember Balaam’s donkey. If God could use a humble animal to deliver His message and accomplish His will, He can certainly use you.
Let’s step into our calling with faith, humility, and confidence in God’s sovereignty. After all, the power to do great things doesn’t come from us—it comes from the God who works through us.
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