Donkeys and men have something in common when it comes to God.
God has spoken through both.
But there is a significant difference between the two. A man can and should be changed by his encounter with God.
Most of us have met someone (maybe even in the mirror) who can see wonderful truths in God’s Word but who does not experience the power of that truth in their personal life. They may even teach God’s truth to others while they “themselves” deny its power by their actions.
No matter how sweet their words may be, those who still walk according to the lusts of the world are enemies of the cross. We must not be arrogant against them but encourage them to walk according to the truth of God’s Word. If any of us think we have arrived and have overcome our sin, we need to take heed lest we fall. To set our mind on the flesh is death, but to set our mind on the Spirit is life and peace. If our mind is set on God’s Spirit, then His fruit will be evident in our lives and our relations with others.
If we continue to walk according to our flesh and its desires… if we continue to dishonor our marriage vows… if we continue to lie, cheat, steal, or harbor ill will in our relations with our family, friends, neighbors, clients, etc., then we have set our mind on the flesh, and we are dead in regards to God’s Spirit.
Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (ESV) John 8:34-36
(ESV Bible Ref.)
- Numbers 22:22-35 (God speaks through a donkey)
- 2 Timothy 3:1-7 (“having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power”)
- 2 Thessalonians 3:13-15 (If a brother does not obey God’s Word “have nothing to do with him”. “Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.”)
- Romans 11:19-21 (“But you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear”)
- Philippians 3:17-21 (Paul tells us to imitate those who walk uprightly. “For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ”)
- 1 Corinthians 10:6-13 (“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.”)
- Romans 8:3-6 (“For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.”)
- 1 Corinthians 5 (“Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. “Purge the evil person from among you.””)
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