What Kind of Animal

Perhaps you have seen pictures matching people’s faces with their pets or some other animal. The comparisons can be rather humorous. However, not all similarities may be a laughing matter. As David, drawing from his own life experience, addressed the blessing of forgiveness and the impact of un-confessed sin, he made mention of a couple animals. Are we like them?

Seeming to write from the perspective of God’s exhortation, David advised…
“(8) I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. (9) BE NOT LIKE A HORSE OR A MULE, without understanding, WHICH MUST BE CURBED WITH BIT AND BRIDLE, or it will not stay near you.” ( Psalm 32:8-9 ESV)

Granted, many animals seem to exhibit an amazing measure of understanding. I say this especially in light of the fact we have a daughter-in-law who has had much experience working with and training horses. None-the-less, to be cooperative, the horse and mule have to be constrained to a certain degree or bridled to bring them into compliance. The bite of the bit turns the head of the horse ( James 3:3) and the restraint of a rope either guides the mule or keeps it where it ought to remain. We, however, are exhorted to be open to the instruction, teaching, and counsel of God, RESPONDING to Him in an UNDERSTANDING WAY. Are we seen to bear the stubbornness and long-faced character of a mule? What other creature might best describe us?

If we are going to be compared to an animal, perhaps we should note the words of Jesus as He sent out the Apostles.
“Behold, I am sending you out as SHEEP in the midst of wolves, so be WISE AS SERPENTS and INNOCENT AS DOVES.” ( Matthew 10:16 ESV)

Sheep, serpents, and doves. Good images for comparison. As sheep we need the guidance of the Good Shepherd. But as we follow His lead, we must also continue to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. God has revealed His will, offering His instruction, not desiring to either drag us about or tie us down, but rather to have us WILLINGLY RESPOND to Him in an UNDERSTANDING WAY. May that response be the mark of our life.

Have a great day EXHIBITING AN EAGER RESPONSIVENESS TO GOD!
Carl

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