9 Do not be like a horse or mule,
without understanding,
that must be controlled with bit and bridle
or else it will not come near you. (Psalm 32:9 CSB)

A good portion of my young life was spent in a small Texas town with a good who’s father raised Quarter horses. I do not consider myself an accomplished rider, but I learned my way around them for a time. While bit and bridle were very important when it comes to horses in general, Quarter horses are a bit different. They are taught to be lead, when ridden, by input from the riders legs. Watching an accomplished rider on a Quarter horse is a sight to behold.

Our faith life should not require bit and bridle either. Subtle input from the Spirit should be all we need to go the direction God desires. But how often do we truly need bit and bridle?

The enemy is continually putting subtle and not so subtle input into our lives. Through the world we are assailed daily by the ruler of this world and will be until Christ returns.

While we should be able to be nudged to perform like a thoroughbred horse we are far too often like the stubborn mule. One who not only balks at commands but will stubbornly stand his ground even when proven wrong.

Why must the Father drag His children in this way? Why must He cajole us into right action?

Because we are fallen and the flesh wants to rule over the spirit. But we must take every action to keep this from happening. We must learn to be lead by the gentle nudge of the Spirit and not drug away by the flagrant input from the enemy!