D is for Delilahs and Donkeys

D is for Delilahs and Donkeys

In life, there are two kinds of people we often have as friends: Delilahs and Donkeys. I know, that sounds strange, but it won't once I explain.

The Bible (Judges 16) tells the story of Samson. He was a man of God, and he'd been given a great gift of strength. He knew a beautiful and wicked woman, whose name was Delilah. She cared about everything except Samson's best interests, and day after day she wore him down. She pleaded, basically saying, "If you loved me, you'd tell me." Finally, he gave in, revealing the secret of his strength. Once he did, she delivered him to the Philistines, who blinded him and threw him in prison.

Delilah was not the ideal friend. But, if you gave the title any attention, you'd notice there's someone else to mention: a donkey. Her story goes something like this.

In the Bible (Numbers 22), there was a man named Balaam. He talked with God and received direction from Him. But one day Balaam decided to pursue his own course, and he went against God's will. His faithful donkey, on the other hand, chose to follow God instead of Balaam. Each time Balaam urged her on, the donkey refused to move forward. She went into a field, thrust them into a wall, and eventually fell under Balaam.

Each time she went against him, Balaam beat her and cursed her. Little did Balaam know that an angel - with a sword drawn - was blocking their way. The donkey saw this angel, but her master did not. The donkey wanted the right thing to happen, but Balaam was blinded by his own intentions. Finally, the donkey's mouth was opened, and she spoke to Balaam. She asked him if she hadn't always been a faithful donkey, and he had to agree. Then, his eyes were opened, and he saw what stood before them. The angel of the Lord informed him that, if the donkey had gone forward, the angel would have slain Balaam. Oops!

I don't know about you, but I'd prefer to have a donkey as a friend - wouldn't you? Even though Delilah was beautiful and “popular,” she betrayed Samson, and their story ends in tragedy. But the donkey - she had the right idea. She saw was Balaam couldn't see, and - though he rejected it - tried to stop him from making a disastrous mistake. I know I've had some of both types, but let me tell you - the donkeys are the ones to hang onto. Just some food for thought. :) 

--- Credit to Shad Martin, who inspired me with his LDS talk.

Bonnie Gwyn