Numbers 22: When God Blocks Your Path

Key Verse: Numbers 22:32 

"And the angel of the Lord said to him, ‘Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to oppose you because your way is perverse before me.’"

Numbers 22 introduces one of the most fascinating stories in Scripture—the account of Balaam and his talking donkey. Balaam was a pagan prophet hired by King Balak of Moab to curse Israel, but God had other plans.

This chapter teaches us that God is sovereign over all, and He can use anyone—even a donkey—to accomplish His purposes. It also reminds us that not every opportunity is from God, and sometimes He blocks our path for our own good.

Balak’s Request: A Plan to Curse Israel

As the Israelites moved closer to the Promised Land, King Balak of Moab became terrified. He saw how they had defeated other nations and feared they would do the same to him.

Instead of seeking God’s help, Balak turned to Balaam, a well-known prophet-for-hire. He sent messengers, offering money and rewards if Balaam would come and curse Israel.

At first, Balaam seemed to seek God’s will. He asked the Lord if he should go, and God clearly answered:

• “You shall not go with them. You shall not curse the people, for they are blessed” (Numbers 22:12).

But when Balak offered more money, Balaam entertained the offer again, hoping for a different answer. This showed that his heart was not fully submitted to God—he was tempted by personal gain.

• Not every open door is from God.

• When God gives a clear answer, we must accept it, not try to change it.

• Seeking wealth or status over obedience leads to spiritual compromise.

Balaam’s Journey: When God Blocks Your Path

Despite God’s warning, Balaam set out on his journey with Balak’s officials. But God saw his true motives and sent an angel to block his way.

What happened next was supernatural:

1. The angel of the Lord stood in Balaam’s path—but Balaam couldn’t see him.

2. His donkey saw the angel and stopped.

3. Balaam became angry and beat the donkey.

4. God opened the donkey’s mouth, and it spoke to Balaam!

Only after this did God open Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the angel standing before him with a drawn sword. The angel told him:

“I have come to oppose you because your way is perverse before me” (Numbers 22:32).

What Does This Teach Us?

• God can use anything—even a donkey—to get our attention.

• Sometimes, when we are headed in the wrong direction, God puts obstacles in our path.

• Ignoring God’s warnings can lead to judgment.

God’s Sovereign Plan: You Cannot Curse What God Has Blessed

Balaam finally reached King Balak, but he could only speak what God allowed. No matter how much Balak wanted Israel cursed, God had already blessed them.

This is a powerful reminder that:

• No one can reverse God’s blessings on your life.

• God is sovereign over every situation, even when others try to harm you.

• When we align with God’s will, we walk in His protection and favor.

Final Thought

Numbers 22 teaches us several key lessons:

• Not every opportunity is from God—beware of temptation, especially when wealth or status is involved.

• God sometimes blocks our path to protect us from making a mistake.

• You cannot curse what God has blessed—His plans will always prevail.

Is God blocking your path in some way? Instead of pushing forward in your own strength, pause and seek His direction. He may be redirecting you for your own good.