Numbers 24:

• Though the ruler of Moab repeatedly commanded Balaam to curse Israel, Balaam “set his face” to blessing Israel. (vs. 1) Balak, a ruler of Moab, says that “the LORD has held [Balaam] back from honor,” (vs. 11) And this indeed is true! For this kind of “honor,” Balaam should not be seeking. Though it comes with riches, privilege, comfort, and reward; there are higher values that should motivate and hold children of God captive!
  • LORD, let me be like Balaam and gladly say to those who would encourage me to distort truth or approve of things contrary to Your ways and missions, “If [you] should give me [your] house full of silver and gold, I would not be able to go beyond the word of the LORD, to do either good or bad of my own will. What the LORD speaks, that will I speak!”

Isaiah 25 & 26:

• If favor cannot be a teacher (vs. 10), then LORD, do what must for me and Your Church to “learn righteousness.” This is a hard request to make, but the desired outcome is greater than the desired (and temporal) comforts.

Colossians 3:

• The accusation of being so heavenly-minded that you are no earthly-good is a false accusation and without reason when considering the scope of the Christian life. Paul encourages us to “set [our] minds on things that are above.” (vs. 2) But this is not an escape from the world! On the contrary! The confidence that we “will appear with [Christ] in glory” (vs. 4) gives us the courage to show compassion and be kind and forgive! …(vs. 12-14)
  • Jesus, give me the vision for the fruition of your promises. That I might be so captivated by that, that I would be willing to sacrifice, suffer give generously and joyfully do anything that might draw people to enjoy you forever!