Mule Musings!

A boy who was asked to prepare a paper on mules wrote the following: “The mule is a bird that is much larger than a goose or turkey and is quite different. It wears its two wings on the sides of its head. The mule also has two feet for walking, two for kicking, and seems to be awfully backward about going forward!”

A mule may appear to be a strange looking creature to some. However, a more serious matter to ponder is that the mule’s temperament is sadly too familiar with many. The wisdom of the world is so often “backward” to the way of God, with the desires of men continuing in opposition to His Will. And the saddest thing is when this is the picture among those who claim to be God’s people.

Through His prophet Jeremiah, in referring to those who were brought out of captivity in Egypt, God stated…
“(23) But this command I gave them: ‘Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people. And walk in all the way that I command you, that it may be well with you.’ (24) But they did not obey or incline their ear, but walked in their own counsels and the stubbornness of their evil hearts, AND WENT BACKWARD AND NOT FORWARD.” ( Jeremiah 7:23-24 ESV)

And the way of God’s people again and again moved that direction.
“You have rejected me, declares the Lord; YOU KEEP GOING BACKWARD, so I have stretched out my hand against you and destroyed you -- I am weary of relenting.” ( Jeremiah 15:6 ESV)

What is the picture of our own life? Stubborn as a mule, many continue to pull away from God, moving “backward” instead of FORWARD. Perhaps we could say that they are very FORWARD in moving “backward” because of the force by which they proclaim their stand. Progression does not take place through the liberal thinking of the world. To label ideas “progressive” does not necessarily equate with real progress in the eyes of God. If we truly want to continue in a FORWARD direction we need to be willing to persist in following Him. Rather than backing away from God and His Will, let us maintain a FORWARD movement toward Him and the righteous standard He has decreed.

Have a great day ADVANCING IN GOD'S WAY!
Carl

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