I came across this passage one morning while reading in Psalms, and I had to laugh and shout a little. I told the Lord, “I know exactly how You feel!” At the time I was a young mother, and my children weren’t always doing what I told them. Of course, I had to admit I hadn’t always listened to my mother either—seems to be the way of children.

But the ways of mothers? That’s another story. We try to guide our children, offer good counsel, and keep them from learning everything the hard way. Still, they follow their own stubborn hearts. That day I told God I completely understood His frustration.

Later, when I worked in an office, I noticed the same thing—some of “my people” didn’t listen there either! As I talked with the Lord about it, He gently whispered something that stopped me in my tracks: “You are My people, too.”

Oh, what a revelation. I suddenly saw myself from His side. I knew how He must feel when He’s trying to give me good counsel, leading me gently down a better path—yet I insist on my own plans, my timing, my list for the day. It’s humbling to realize that while I may shake my head at others for not listening, I often do the very same thing with God.

Psalm 81 carries both a warning and an invitation. God allows stubborn hearts to have their way—but His heart longs for us to listen, so He can lead us in His ways. Today, let’s choose soft, teachable hearts.

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Thought to Ponder

• Where have I been following my own “stubborn heart” instead of God’s counsel?
• What small, practical step can I take today to listen for His voice?
• Who in my life needs gentle encouragement—not control—as they learn to listen to God?

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve been hardheaded and slow to heed Your voice. Soften my heart, tune my ears to Your Spirit, and lead me in Your ways today. Amen.