Bullheaded

What’s the difference between being bullheaded and being persistent? One is more dangerous than the other. Persistent Christians don’t have to force their way like the bull in the china closet. They can be patient because they know the Lord, who makes a way when there doesn’t seem to be one. I’m trying to be persistent, but not bullheaded. Persistence says, “I will keep doing all I can to please the Lord, never giving up. Instead of pushing for my own way, I’ll take one step at a time as he leads.”

If the Lord is directing our steps, how can we be in a position to understand the whole journey? — Proverbs 20:24

Ten Thoughts to Ponder

1. I don’t have an ability that can be productive without God’s support, which keeps me dependent upon him.
2. Sometimes I wish what I have been taught would be true, but I have a sense that it isn’t actually true.
3. When I accept the way things are, I have a better chance of changing the way things are.
4. Believing God’s miracle lets me do more than try.
5. Satan is the “father of lies” because of his ability to tell the truth in a deceptive way.
6. With faith, I can accept the way things are, knowing they won’t stay that way.
7. My sight isn’t good enough to see all the mountains that God moves.
8. With lots of prayer, I can learn to trust God’s answers.
9. Persistence must see the benefit outweighing the cost.
10. I will give up as soon as I believe there is no hope.

Questions for Further Thought

• How far should we go in planning what we want to accomplish in the years ahead?
• How can we distinguish unnecessary delays and detours from God having a plan different from what we expect?