Do Not Be Like a Mule

“Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which has no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.” – Psalm 32: 9

A mule is an animal without insight and is controlled with a bit and bridle. They will not on their own come to you, so you must harness them using the bit and bridle. A mule finds it difficult to understand instructions until extra forceful efforts are made to motivate them. The scripture today warns us not to be like a mule without an understanding of the instructions of its owner.

In the previous verse, God promised to instruct us and teach us the way to go. I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye (Psalm 32:8). However, we must be willing to hear, understand and submit to God’s instruction for us to learn from Him. Hence, He warned us not to be like a mule or a horse that would require forceful intervention before submission to direction.

Divine direction is readily available but how ready are we to submit to God’s leading? We must not let it come to the point where God would have to compel us to appear in His presence through various measures. Did I just mention that God compels men? Yes, He does compel some people to seek His face when He allows them to face various life challenges that will draw them close to Him. Some would go through illnesses, disappointments, and rejections before they would come to God for help. Don’t wait until you are denied or prevented from getting the good things that you desire before you would make seeking God’s presence a priority.

Sometimes, when your love for Him has been shifted to mundane things, out of His love and mercy, He prevents you from reaching your goal so that you can remember Him and come back to His loving arms. You must not wait for bits and bridles before you come into God’s presence. Let your fellowship with God be smooth. Come to his presence willingly not grudgingly but of necessity.

Enoch walked with God and God walked with him. No man had successfully walked with God that God coerced into a relationship with Him. It all starts from a willing heart.

God has invited us- come boldly to the throne of grace that you may receive mercy and find grace to help in times of need. Don’t be coerced or wait for bit and bridle. Come willingly because in him is the fullness of all things. God bless you.