As Israel traveled through the land, their reputation preceded them: "Indeed, Moab was filled with dread because of the Israelites" (Numbers 22:3). So the king of Moab decided to enlist the services of a prophet named Balaam to come and curse Israel so they would not succeed. We don't really know who Balaam was or how he came into such a prophetic ministry since he was not part of Israel. However, God did speak to him as we read, "But God said to Balaam, “Do not go with them. You must not put a curse on those people, because they are blessed" (Numbers 22:12).
The king was used to getting his way, however, so "Then Balak sent other officials, more numerous and more distinguished than the first." Balaam answered, "Even if Balak gave me all the silver and gold in his palace, I could not do anything great or small to go beyond the command of the Lord my God" (Numbers 22:18). It's safe to assume that Balak made a better offer to Balaam on the second trip, but Balaam held out for even more, which is why he hinted that he wasn't for hire—while he really was.
We then read, "That night God came to Balaam and said, “Since these men have come to summon you, go with them, but do only what I tell you” (Numbers 22:20). God had already told Balaam not to go but then gave him permission only to oppose him on his way through the bizarre incident of the talking donkey.
Have you put your spiritual gift, the talents and strengths God has given you, up for sale? You may say, "God forbid" or you may not see how you have done so with the wisdom or faith God has bestowed upon you. The best way to ensure you will never do so is to find ways that the people of God can benefit from who you are while you also earn your living through sources outside the church.
What's more, if the church doesn't have a way to benefit from your gifts, are you open to inventing ways on your own to bless others whom God would have you bless? That can happen by starting your own ministry to orphans or widows, for example, or some other creative expression built around who God made you to be.
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