Instruction from the Master

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse of the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you." Psalm 32:8-9

Some of the Lord's instruction is very clear. For example the phrase "pray always" means you should pray all the time. That's pretty clear if you ask me. On the other hand there seems to be some of the Lord's instruction that tends to be more illusive. It is harder to know His exact plan or leading. Leading a church or a family can be very sticky at times and requires a ton of wisdom and discretion. The path is not always marked out for us. Yet, this passage gives us great hope. God instructs, teaches, gives direction, counsels and guards. He is the ultimate guide in any situation. Sometimes that instruction is hard to discern. Yet, a part of his guidance comes through our conscience and the freedom He gives to His followers. The writer of Psalms gives a contrast. The contrast is a horse that must be bridled to move in the right direction. The man or woman of God is free to listen and hear from God and then act. Sometimes we get it wrong, but that is just a part of the deal. When we seek Him with our whole heart and honestly strive to walk in His ways, there is tremendous freedom. We don't have to be like a bridled horse. We can become a wild stallion with the heart of the Master inside of us prompting us to move and take action. Isn't that a beautiful word picture? May I live closely enough to Him today that I hear His voice and respond with vigor as he leads.