Did you know that the idea of “stubborn as a mule” is in the Bible? It’s in Psalm 32:9. To be fair to mules, David does include horses too. He labels both animals as having “no understanding” and requiring bit and bridle “to hold them in check.”
This image comes in the context of David’s sin with Bathsheba (vv. 3-4). Not listening to the Lord led David down a path of adultery, murder, and mule-like refusal to acknowledge his transgressions. David wouldn’t be instructed by the Lord (cf. v. 8). He believed that harboring his sin would bring him more joy than listening to God’s counsel. But he knew better. And until he repented, David’s health declined along with his soul.
So, how can we learn from David and not stubbornly carry on like a mule in our sin?
1. Remember the reality of your justification in Christ (vv. 1-3; cf. Rom 4:7-8)David begins by pronouncing blessings upon anyone whose sins are not imputed to him. Paul quotes these lines in Rom 4 as he explains justification by faith. The joys of having our sins charged to Christ and His righteousness charged to us will uproot evil desires and our stubbornness in holding onto our sins.
2. Remember the pains of unrepented sin (vv. 3-4, 10a)David explains how his body wasted away as God disciplined him for not repenting (vv. 3-4). His sorrows were many (v. 10a). Sin brings in “a flood of great waters” that will engulf you if you don’t turn from it. Remembering that helps curb our hearts in a moment of temptation.
3. Remember the love of God for you (vv. 7, 10b)God has delivered us (v. 7b) in His lovingkindness. His steadfast love surrounds us (v. 10a). The joy of all joys is that God takes stubborn mules like us and transforms us into submissive servants. He also covers all our sins against Him and gives us Christ’s perfect righteousness. Reveling in that love will change our hearts so that we seek righteousness and repent quickly when we need to.
We can be like mules. But we don’t have to be. Remembering these three truths will help us stay open to God’s instruction and correction.
