Gary and I have been watching the new program “House of David,” and we love it. While they take liberties with the Scriptural story, they present it in a captivating way that highlights God’s interaction with His people, both tangibly and supernaturally.

God’s desire has always been to bless His people. However, their own stubbornness often brought trouble. A “stiff neck” is not about the body but about a hard, unyielding heart.

The prophet Samuel conveyed this truth in 1 Samuel 15:22:
Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.

God doesn’t seek mindless religion or reluctant compliance. He desires a tender, willing, and submitted heart.

Years ago, Stacy Westfall inspired me when she won a competition riding her horse bareback and bridleless. Watch her here. Her horse’s complete trust and obedience beautifully illustrate our relationship with God. Like that horse, we can be powerful yet surrendered, led by the touch of our Master rather than forced by harsh discipline.

God wants us to trust His goodness and guidance, to follow Him not out of obligation but from love. Scripture is full of people who either did the bare minimum to please God or outright rebelled. Let’s be different. Let’s overcome the hardness of this world by trusting our Master.

God constantly trains us through intimacy and relationship, shaping us into who we were created to be. Our attitude determines our altitude in following His lead.

Slow obedience is no obedience—but if you missed it today, remember: His mercies are new every morning.

Isaiah 1:19 says, “If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land.”

God has assignments for each of us. He is not distant or disengaged—He leads us with love and purpose. We may have plans, but He orders our steps.

True joy is found in surrendering to God’s will. Stop resisting. He sees the bigger picture. Honor the Holy Spirit, seek His guidance, and follow His peace. You’ve got this.

With expectation,
Pastor Kristi