It’s easy to place too much stock in other people. Sometimes, we seek in others what can only be found in God. In Numbers 22, the Moabite king Balak summoned the prophet Balaam to come and curse the nation of Israel. But Balaam delayed because the Lord initially prohibited him. When Balaam did end up going, the king met him and said, “Why did you not come to me? Am I not able to honor you?”[1]
Balak believed that, because of his wealth and status as king, he could give Balaam great honor, riches, and blessings. And Balaam believed that too. And sure, as a king, Balak could probably give Balaam a great deal of money or access to pleasure. But how long would that last? What honor would it really give? Compared to the blessings God promises, what are the gifts of men? Don’t be like Balaam—don’t reject the eternal blessings of God for the fleeting honor of men.
[1] Numbers 22:37