Don’t Be a Stubborn Mule
At the end of Psalm 32, David instructs believers in the right path. He desires to help others celebrate the joy of forgiveness and avoid the pitfalls of unconfessed sin (32:8). He uses a couple of similes to warn his readers not to be like the horse or the mule. These are animals with no understanding of the truth and only live by instinct (32:9). Believers, you have the Scriptures to guide you in the right path. Do not live obeying your fleshly desires like an animal who does not know better.
David says the mule and horse have to have a bit and bridle in order to make them do what you want them to do (32:9). They will not naturally submit themselves to their owners. They must be trained to do what is required of them. God prefers a willing and submissive heart to a stubborn and proud one. Brethren, you are not a dumb animal, but God will use all necessary means to make you stay on the right path.
There is great joy in trusting and obeying God. The wicked face many sorrows in life this life, without the prospect of divine help (32:10). The godly, on the other hand, are surrounded by the loyal love of God (32:10). The godly can rejoice and praise God along with the assembly of saints (32:11).
The choice for every believer is to be stubborn like a mule and refuse to acknowledge your sin and endure divine discipline. Divine discipline is out of God’s love to bring you back to Him in repentance. To avoid guilty fears, spiritual depression and much sorrow live a life honouring to God. When you do sin confess your sins and find relief and joy in God’s forgiveness.