Embarrassment is a terrible feeling. Sometimes, when we feel embarrassed, we try to blame someone else. Perhaps we accuse others of making a fool of us. In Numbers 22, we find the fascinating story of Balaam the prophet. He was summoned to curse the people of Israel, but on the way, an angel stood in the way, ready to slay the man. Balaam’s donkey turned away and saved the prophet’s life, not just once, but three times. Each time, Balaam struck the donkey in a rage. Finally, God opened the mouth of the donkey, who spoke and asked Balaam why he struck her. Balaam’s response was, “Because you have made a fool of me.”
Here was a man seeking to curse God’s people for money, beating a donkey for saving his life, and talking to a donkey—he didn’t need help making a fool of himself. When we fail, let’s not point the finger at others. Let’s recognize our shortcomings, repent, and do better.