An illustration inspired by Psalm 32:9, showing a gentle scene with a person standing beside a calm horse and a mule. The animals wear simple bridles, and the person holds the reins loosely, symbolizing a gentle guiding touch rather than force. The person gazes thoughtfully at the animals, representing understanding and attentiveness to guidance. In the background, soft sunlight filters through trees, suggesting peace and divine presence. This image reflects the verse's call for a receptive heart, highlighting the contrast between willing guidance and resistant stubbornness.

Living with Understanding, Not Stubbornness

“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 32:9 (ESV)

God’s desire for His children is for us to live with a heart of understanding, rather than in obstinance, like a mule that resists guidance. When God disciplines us, He seeks to bring us back to His wisdom and correction, to reshape us toward the goodness He intends.

In Scripture, the “dull of hearing” are those slow to perceive God’s gentle instruction, as mentioned in Hebrews 5:11. Many believers find themselves in this place—keen to profess faith, yet unresponsive to God’s voice and nudges toward change. Like a mule that resists its master, they miss the messages God weaves into their experiences. Challenges and trials are often His tools to shape our character, to teach, strengthen, and refine us. But when we remain unyielding, refusing to listen or recognize His hand in our lives, we lose these lessons.

Instead of seeing life’s difficulties as God’s discipline, we may point fingers at others, failing to recognize the loving correction He is working out in us. Such resistance only makes the discipline harder, for the unyielding soul must often be nudged more sternly. This is why God implores us in Psalm 32:9 not to be like the uncomprehending mule but to open our hearts and minds to His instruction.

The Purpose of Discipline

God’s discipline, while painful in the moment, “yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11 ESV). It is a tool of transformation, intended to align our stubborn wills with His good purpose. God’s ultimate aim isn’t to strip us of free will, but to guide our wills, thoughts, and emotions toward His own. He does not want us to lose our uniqueness, but to willingly place our minds and hearts under His wise guidance.

God, who works in us “both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 ESV), will often create the conditions that lead us to choose what pleases Him. He does not force us but lovingly shapes us so that our choices align with His purpose, creating a life that flows in harmony with His design. This path, however, is smoother for those who willingly yield to His direction rather than resist.

Embracing God’s Will

God wants us to live lives that mirror His goodness, where our choices reflect His wisdom and love. For this, He calls us not to be like stubborn animals needing force to obey, but like children who listen and follow. The more we resist, the more severe the discipline may become, as God seeks to reshape a heart that is bent on its own way. Such stubbornness can lead to struggles, simply because we must learn to surrender our will to His.

God’s call is not to erase our will but to guide it, molding it to align with His wisdom. This life of submission is one that brings peace, not strife, and He offers His Spirit as our guide. If we are willing, He will transform our desires, giving us “the desire and the power to do what pleases Him” (Philippians 2:13 NLT). God wants our thoughts, emotions, and will—fully and freely yielded to Him—so that we may walk in His peace and purpose.

Embrace Salvation

For those who have not yet taken the step of salvation, today is the day. Scripture reminds us of the urgency: “Now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2 ESV).

To come into God’s family:

  1. Acknowledge and Confess: Admit your sins before God (1 John 1:9) and invite Jesus into your heart (Revelation 3:20).
  2. Believe and Declare: Proclaim your belief that Jesus is Lord, and confess it with your mouth (Romans 10:9-10).
  3. Request Assurance: Ask Him to write your name in the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:8).

If you have taken these steps, you are now part of God’s family. Seek out a church rooted in God’s Word and grow in fellowship. May His peace and guidance lead you every day.