Bridled like a mule or a horse

Several years ago, a bunch of my family gathered in Phoenix, AZ. One of our outings together was to rent horses and go for a ride in the desert. I loved to ride, so I was quite excited for the adventure!

Unfortunately, the horses weren't as excited about the trip. Some of the horses just plodded along - not responding to any nudging for a faster ride. BORING! Others, like mine, kept feeling the urge to explore "off-path". The result: crazy jumping cactus pines in their hooves and around their legs. Needless to say - it was quite a disappointment - for both us, and I imagine, the horses too!

This morning, I was reading through some Psalms and I came across this verse:

Ps. 32:8-9 (ESV) ~ "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed wtih bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you."

As I pondered what that meant, I thought of two things: 1) my horse ride in the desert on a disobedient horse, and 2) a stubborn mule (see photo above). Anyone who has ever been around a stubborn mule knows exactly what I'm talking about! What a clear picture of how NOT to react to the Lord's leading!

So, if not a stubborn mule, what then should I look like in my walk with the Lord? Lola. No, that's not an acronym, but rather the name of a beautiful dog my friend Gina owned. Lola was a golden retriever that loved her master. Not that she was perfect - but she was one of the best behaved and loyal dogs I've ever seen. She stuck to Gina, following her everywhere. (Note number one: she followed.) She also obeyed Gina's commands. (Note 2: she obeyed) As a result - both parties found joy in the relationship. Now, it's not a perfect analogy, I know - but if I were to follow and obey my Master, like Lola followed and obeyed hers, I would avoid the stubborn mule syndrome and also experience joy!

Oh Lord, I know that You will counsel me and direct my steps. Please help me to walk in a manner worthy of the calling which I have received - so that I neither need tethered or drug back on course. Help me to do as the Proverb counsels: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths." (Prov. 3:5-6)

Mule picture courtesy www.virtualhorses.com