Goads

Left to their own devices, oxen easily can wander in the wrong direction. One time-honored way of correcting them, and keeping them on track, is through a goad. These sharp-pointed sticks get their attention and help them move in the right direction.

The Bible uses the goad as a picture of the way God works in our lives. There are times when we are comfortable, and just want to go our own way. But we are reminded that we can be too comfortable drifting in the wrong direction and thinking wrong thoughts. These are times when we might need a goad.

The Bible says that the words of the wise are “like goads.” They can get our attention and show us why we need to change. They can point us in new directions, correct mistakes, and teach us new things.

God’s Word often acts as a goad. If “words are like goads,” they will spur us on and force us to change – to look at life in new ways, and move in new directions.

God gave us His Word because He wants us to understand His principles and experience the fullness of His blessings. He does not want us to be complacent or immature. He wants us to think His thoughts, to be filled with His Spirit, and to act with His power. He wants us to grow in our faith and become more like Jesus. This can mean wanting us to change in some ways.

Today, if you feel stretched, challenged, and overwhelmed, you may be experiencing God’s goads in your life. Turn to Him and see what He is saying to you.  Ask Him to help you grow in your faith and become conformed to the image of Christ.