Balaam was a prophet, yet he could not see what his donkey clearly saw—the Angel of the Lord standing in his path. Blinded by pride and the lure of personal gain, Balaam struck the very animal God was using to save his life. In mercy, God opened Balaam’s eyes and redirected his steps (Numbers 22:22–35).

How often are we like Balaam? We become so fixed on our plans, ambitions, or desires that we fail to recognize God’s loving hand of discipline. The interruptions, delays, disappointments, and unexpected obstacles may not be signs that God has abandoned us. They may be evidence that He is protecting us from dangers we cannot yet see.

The greatest evidence of God’s mercy is Jesus Christ. We were spiritually blind and walking toward judgment, but Christ opened our eyes through the gospel and turned us onto the path of life. Even today, He faithfully corrects, disciplines, and redirects His children—not to harm us, but to conform us to His image.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times I resist Your loving correction. Open my eyes to see Your hand at work. Give me a humble heart that welcomes Your guidance and trusts that Your ways are always better than my own. Keep me from every path that leads away from You, and help me follow You with joyful obedience. Amen.