“Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle or they will not come to you.” —Psalm 32:9 NIV

God desires a willing and open heart—a heart that seeks Him not out of compulsion but out of genuine love and trust. Psalm 32:9 warns us against being stubborn like a horse or mule that requires external control to follow the right path. Instead, God invites us into a relationship where we willingly come to Him, eager to follow His guidance.

There are times when we may find ourselves resisting God’s direction, pulling back on the reins like a stubborn mule. We argue with Him, questioning His plans for our lives, perhaps out of fear, pride, or a desire for control. But God doesn’t want to impose His will upon us forcefully; He longs for us to trust Him and to choose His way out of love.

I recently spoke with a 16-year-old who candidly shared that he sees God like a boss—someone he needs to be on good terms with to get to heaven but doesn’t really want to know personally. His honesty was refreshing and revealing. How often have we, perhaps without admitting it, treated God the same way? Keeping Him at a distance, complying just enough but resisting a deeper relationship?

I can relate to this feeling. There have been moments in my life when I’ve approached God out of obligation rather than desire, when I’ve been reluctant to surrender fully to His leading. Yet, I’ve learned that true peace and fulfillment come when I allow God to take the reins, trusting His direction and embracing a close relationship with Him.

What does it mean to have a soft heart in prayer?

Willingness to Listen: Approaching God with an open mind, ready to hear His voice without preconceptions or resistance.
“Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” — 1 Samuel 3:9 NIV

Trust in His Goodness: Believing that God’s plans for us are rooted in love and are for our ultimate good, even when we don’t fully understand them.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5 NIV

Eagerness to Obey: Responding to God’s guidance promptly and joyfully, rather than dragging our feet or debating His instructions.
“I will hasten and not delay to obey your commands.” — Psalm 119:60 NIV

Desire for Relationship: Seeking to know God intimately, not just as a means to an end but as the loving Father He is.
“Come near to God and he will come near to you.” — James 4:8 NIV

Question for Reflection:
How can you cultivate a softer heart in your prayer life, one that is open and responsive to God’s leading?

Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve been stubborn and resistant to Your guidance. I don’t want to be like a mule that needs to be controlled by bit and bridle. Instead, I desire a soft heart that willingly comes to You, trusts You, and embraces Your direction. Help me to let go of my need for control and to surrender fully to You. Deepen my relationship with You so that I may know You more intimately and follow You more faithfully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.