Am I like that?

Psalm 32:8-9 NLT

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."

Our not so young "puppy" is massive and mega boisterous now.

His enthusiasm can get him into heaps of trouble, because it makes him "deaf" to our commands.

If he sees something new and enticing, he'll pick it up in his mouth whether it's safe or not. Before we know it, he can shred and destroy anything that takes his fancy!

So, when walking him we have to use a head halty which mimicks a halter for a horse (without the bit).

That enables us to curb the excesses of his ebullient behaviour.

This Psalm is the Lord's entreaty to each of us to listen and follow what He asks of us in His Word.

Sadly, I confess to being one of His rebel kids! I have experienced the "halty" of the Lord's rebuke, bringing me into line with His Word - meaning that He has had to restrict me in many of my wayward ways.

However, I take great comfort from even this in God's Word:

Hebrews 12:5-8 NLT

And have you forgotten the encouraging words God spoke to you as His children? He said, "My child, don't make light of the LORD's discipline, and don't give up when He corrects you. [6] For the LORD disciplines those He loves, and He punishes each one He accepts as His child." [7] As you endure this divine discipline, remember that God is treating you as His own children. Who ever heard of a child who is never disciplined by its father? [8] If God doesn't discipline you as he does all of His children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really His children at all.

Hallelujah for the Lord's discipline, for it proves I belong to Him and that He cares enough to bring me to order.

Psalm 51:10-13 NLT

Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. [11] Do not banish me from Your Presence, and don't take Your Holy Spirit from me. [12] Restore to me the joy of Your Salvation, and make me willing to obey You. [13] Then I will teach Your ways to (my fellow) rebels, and they will return to You.