DOGGONE STUBBORN
Mechelle Holbrook
Today’s Scripture: “And the Lord said to Moses, 'I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people.'” Exodus 32:9, ESV
Theme: From antiquity to today, God recognizes His people as “stiff-necked”--stubborn, prideful, and difficult; however, He chooses to lead and save us anyway.
STIFF-NECKED DOGS
If you know my family, you might say we have some stiff-necked dogs. But most people would probably just say our animals are spoiled. For the sake of this devotion, though, we’ll refer to them as stiff-necked.
We really do try to train them to listen, but when someone comes to visit, they make a scene—barking, jumping, and generally losing their minds over whoever walks through the door. And walking them on a leash? Forget it. One little distraction and they’re pulling in every direction like it’s their first walk ever. You’d think they’d learn after all the visitors and walks we’ve had at our house, but no. They just keep repeating the same behavior, no matter how much we try to correct them.
Sometimes it’s comical. Other times it’s frustrating—really frustrating. Especially when we visit a friend who has a well-behaved dog. Thankfully, our friends love us anyway and graciously overlook our dogs’ stubborn, stiff-necked ways. And to be fair, they usually calm down after a few minutes and return to being somewhat normal (at least by our standards!).
STUBBORN PEOPLE
As funny—or even cute—as stubborn dogs can be, stiff-necked people are a different story. What does it mean to be stiff-necked? It means being stubborn, prideful, and unwilling to change. That definition can bring to mind many examples: kids who won’t listen, coworkers who ignore the rules, athletes who cheat in sports… And today, in our Scripture, we’re reminded of the Israelites.
Every time I read the New Testament, I wonder how in the world God put up with the constant stubbornness of the Israelites. Even after God freed them from slavery and showed them miracle after miracle, they still turned back to their old ways. While Moses was on the mountain receiving the Ten Commandments, they were down below, fashioning an idol to worship.
If I’m being honest—I have to admit—I’m often just as stiff-necked. Just like the Israelites, I find myself falling back into old habits, forgetting what God has done for me, and ignoring His direction. However, when I choose to follow His ways and seek Him, I find joy, blessing, and freedom from the painful consequences of going my own way.
PLIABLE PEOPLE
What stands out to me most is the patience of God. Throughout Scripture, this kind of stubborn behavior shows up again and again. And yet—our gracious God keeps showing up too. He is loving and patient, even in the face of our rebellion. Knowing we couldn’t do this on our own, He sent His Son. Just as He showed mercy and grace to the Israelites, He continues to do the same for us today.
He promises to guide us and lead us through every part of life. Psalm 32:8–9 is a beautiful reminder of that: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you” (NIV).
Make It Personal: Let’s not be like the stubborn mule—or my crazy dogs. Let’s learn to follow God with willing hearts, trusting that His way is always better.
Pray: God, we know there is no other hope except you. God show me the areas that I am being "stiff necked", stubborn, or prideful and try to go my own way. Help me realize you are love and want the best for your children.
Read: Exodus 32:1-14
Weekly Memory Verse: "What if some were unfaithful? Does their faithlessness nullify the faithfulness of God?” Romans 3:3, ESV