Bit and Bridle Not Required

Scripture:  Ps. 32:8(b), 9 NKJV  - I will guide you with My eye.  Do not be like the horse or like the mule which have no understanding, which must be harnessed with bit and bridle, else they will not come near you.
    
 I love horse movies.  They’ve been the subject of many engaging stories over the decades.  (Did anybody see “Secretariat” or “Warhorse”)?  Generally speaking, they are majestic-looking creatures who’ve been lauded in folklore and in non-fiction—even in the Holy Scriptures!  (Job 39:19-25) My view of them comically stands in stark contrast with those of my son’s fiancée.  She views horses as being huge, dumb, mean creatures that are not to be trusted!  In her defense, though, she has had occasion to be in closer proximity to them than I have.
  
God describes this wonder of His creation as fearless and strong, terror-inspiring, and impressively swift!  As one would expect, all horse movies have showcased the memorable attributes of these noble beasts, as does our Lord in Job 39; however, God in today’s Scripture selection also uses the horse’s lack of understanding and natural stubbornness as attributes shared by people-the “crown jewel” of His creation—who ofttimes, like the horse, “ must be harnessed with bit and bridle, else they will not come near you.”  (And He so delights in our drawing near to Himself)!  We have only to look in a mirror to see someone who has been the beloved object of the Lord’s divine tenacity—and I’m talkin’ POST-new birth!
 
 Let’s admire the fierceness of this noble-looking creature, but let us refrain from being as wayward, willful, and foolishly stubborn as a horse, without the use of, as God says, a “bit and bridle,” tools akin to the harsh consequences than often follow our refusal to obey His clear leading in our daily lives.

Prayer:  Dear Abba, You tell us to seek You with all our heart, to always pray to You and seek Your face—to shun being stubborn and unresponsive to Your loving and faithful efforts to lead and guide us.  Thank You, Lord, in Jesus’ name.  Amen!

(by Denise Diggs)