“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.” Psalm 32:9

The Mule

It was grocery-shopping time, and I dashed into the store, quickly grabbing a cart. Normally, I’d have checked the drivability of the cart before selecting one, but this time I just grabbed and went. My mind was a million miles away, when I began to realize, man, this cart is really pulling to the left. It was a constant struggle just to keep it going straight.

The more I pushed and tugged my way down the aisle, the Lord began to remind me of a few things in my own personal life that had bordered on mulish behavior—especially with my husband. Ouch. “Oh, come on!” I said quietly under my breath. “Lord, surely You don’t think I act like a mule, do You?”

Now, I don’t know how many mules you’ve been around, but they do tend to be on the obstinate side. Sometimes they plant their feet and won’t move an inch. “OK, ok, I can see that has happened at times, Lord. But, but, but…”

Well, my arms were plum worn out by the time I got through shopping, but I did get the Lord’s point. It’s so wonderful with the Lord: His correction is sweet, and never condemning. And when we say we’re sorry and ask for forgiveness, His compassions never fail. “The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy” (Psalm 145:8).

“Oh, Lord, You know us so well, yet You love us and offer grace at every turn. Whether we’re grocery shopping, or navigating marriage, please help us all not to need a bit and bridle in our walk with You! Amen.”