Psalm 32:8-11
8 The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.
9 Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.”
10 Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord.
11 So rejoice in the Lord and be glad, all you who obey him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure!
Last weekend my husband and I took our horse-enthusiast daughter on a trail ride to celebrate her 14th birthday. It had been several years since I sat in a saddle, so I listened intently to the guides instructions and our daughters helpful hints in order to enjoy the ride. Unfortunately, however, the beautiful creature I was paired with was a stubborn, senseless horse.
Enjoyable ride?
Not so much.
It was evident from the moment we hit the trail that Cimeron knew where she was going and which path she preferred to walk. Despite numerous attempts to guide her, she refused by shaking her head and neighing at me whenever I pulled the reigns to the right or left. To make matters worse, Cimeron’s favored path through the forest was barely wide enough for her to pass through – let alone her rider! I did my best to maneuver around the trees by shifting in my saddle, moving the stirrups forward and backward and pushing myself away with one hand while holding the reigns with the other. But about 45 minutes into the trail ride, after narrowly avoiding an oak tree on my left I failed to shift my right leg quick enough before SMACK– my knee kissed a pine tree straight on.
Fifteen minutes later, we finally arrived back at the stables where I dismounted as quickly as possible. After the throbbing ceased and a magnificent shade of purple began to spread across my knee, I decided to snap a few pictures to remind myself of the day’s adventures. As I looked into Cimeron’s gorgeous blue eyes, I wondered…
How often has my life mirrored this senseless horse?
How often have I wanted to go my own way?
How often have I failed to ask God’s advice?
How often has He disciplined me with a bit and bridle?
How often has my heart been filled with sorrow for the bruises I’ve inflicted on others because of my wickedness?
Too often to count.
Yet, every day, the Lord gives me another opportunity to repent for any senselessness, saddle up and get back on the trail. Then, as I choose to trust and obey, God promises to surround me with His unfailing love as He watches over and guides me along the best path.
Deep Into the Water 