Path and Bridle

Today’s Scripture is Psalms 32:8-9.

“I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or mule, which have no understanding; they must be controlled with bit and bridle to make them come to you.”

In these verses, we find a comforting promise from God, paired with a strong warning. God pledges to guide us, offering not only instruction but also vigilant oversight. This promise encapsulates His readiness to lead us through life’s complexities, provided we are willing to listen and follow His counsel.

Yet, the following verse presents a hard alternative: if we choose not to heed His guidance, we risk being treated like unthinking animals, needing bits and bridles for direction.

This imagery is powerful and clear—without understanding and willingness, we relinquish the gentle guidance of God’s hand, only to face harsher measures to bring us back to the path.

This dynamic mirrors the truth of the saying, “Fools do eventually, what wise men do immediately.” God’s invitation is to wisdom—to respond to His guidance promptly, and avoid the painful lessons reserved for those who delay obedience.

Choosing to listen to God’s direction can spare us much hardship and will align us more closely with His will and peace.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and this is a thought worth thinking.