Numbers 22:18
Question
In this scripture, Balaam remains obedient to the Lord, despite great pressure to do otherwise. Elder Robbins reminds us that it’s more important to please God than to please others.
When have you remained true to God’s commandments in the face of peer pressure?
Scripture
18 And Balaam answered and said unto the servants of Balak, If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot go beyond the word of the Lord my God, to do less or more.
Numbers 22:18
Quote
Trying to please others before pleasing God is inverting the first and second great commandments. It is forgetting which way we face. And yet, we have all made that mistake because of the fear of men. In Isaiah the Lord warns us, “Fear ye not the reproach of men.” In Lehi’s dream, this fear was triggered by the finger of scorn pointed from the great and spacious building, causing many to forget which way they faced and to leave the tree “ashamed.” … When people try to save face with men, they can unwittingly lose face with God. Thinking one can please God and at the same time condone the disobedience of men isn’t neutrality but duplicity, or being two-faced or trying to “serve two masters.” … When others demand approval in defiance of God’s commandments, may we always remember whose disciples we are, and which way we face[.]
Elder Lynn G. Robbins
Bethene Zetterquist Photography 