Fixed and Defiant

“They have made their faces harder than rock; they have refused to return … They are foolish; for they do not know the way of the LORD.”—Jeremiah 5:3–4 NKJV

How natural it is to want our own way – to make decisions that make sense to us, to want to make up our own minds. Even long-time believers can find it difficult in practical ways simply to trust God. But the Bible continually reminds us that God knows what is best for each person. We should not “lean on our own understanding,” but we must acknowledge Him and let Him direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). Yet this can be so hard to do.

As our Creator, He really understands us better than we understand ourselves. He knows paths that might make sense to us may take us in wrong directions. Yet, when faced with choices, some people become determined not to listen to Him. They become so resolute that they make “their faces harder than rock.” They are defiant, fixed, and stubborn.

In contrast, God encourages us to stay humble before Him, to have hearts able to learn from experiences, to be teachable, and to be ready to admit our mistakes and turn to Him.

Ask God to show you if you are guilty of pride. Don’t stubbornly continue to seek your own way. Humble yourself before Him. Lay aside your personal feelings and surrender your life anew to His leading. Trust Him, and let Him direct your path. Seek to be pliable and sensitive to His Spirit. Be willing to learn and always ready to turn to Him.

Reflection Question: Reflect on your struggles with pride.