“The Lord opened Balaam’s eyes, and he saw the Angel of the Lord standing in the way.”  Numbers 22:31  Balaam was offered a profitable assignment from a neighboring king, and he inquired of God for permission to accept it. When God said no, Balaam asked again.  God granted permission but with strict conditions.  God knew Balaam’s heart and was not pleased with him, so He placed His Angel in the way.  Balaam couldn’t see the Angel but his donkey could.  When the donkey refused to continue, Balaam became angry with the animal for blocking his progress.  Balaam’s story teaches us that not every obstacle is meant to be overcome.  Some are placed by God to keep us from doing something foolish.  When our plans are hindered, we shouldn’t automatically assume that it’s Satan trying to stop us.  It might be God trying to protect us.  God is always protecting us – even when we don’t realize we need it.