Refusing to Budge?

“A man who remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy.” Proverbs 29:1 NIV

See this pug? Refusing to budge. ( I know this too well. I owned one.)

Or better yet, a little kid who will not let you help him blow his nose! He fusses and fusses, pulling his head away! He refuses to look your direction. 

Oooh. This proverb is a stiff warning to the stiff-necked!

““But my people would not listen to me. They kept doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward.” Jeremiah 7:24 NLT

I found myself here in Jeremiah. I was in Bible Study Fellowship (of all places) studying Israel and the Minor Prophets. The words jumped off the pages as I read. God was speaking directly to me. I thought MY way was better than God’s way. I didn’t want to give up control. 

There are multiple places the Bible warns against being stiff-necked: 2 Chronicles 30:8, Exodus 33:3-5, and Exodus 34:9. 

Pride is usually the culprit that keeps us set in our own ways, not wanting to listen to what’s best for us. When we examine our hearts and ask God to tell us what needs to change, He’s faithful to show us. He gently restores us. He’s not pushy—He lets us decide if we’re willing to be teachable. 

And when we do choose obedience to His Word? 

He patiently, faithfully, provides comfort—and guides us as we turn our faces towards Him.