I like to think I am a first child, Type A, rule follower, “good” person. But in my faith journey during my adult life, I have realized I am often more like a “horse or mule” who needs “to be controlled by bit or bridle.” [vs. 9]

This hides itself in sneaky ways that are often praised by our culture today: self-reliance, persistence, trying harder, and a “do it yourself” mentality. “If I could just try harder, I know I can get it done…. If I put the right systems in place, I know I can overcome that sin…. If I just get up a little earlier or stay up later, I can accomplish this goal….”

Many times, it is only when the storms of life get me down that I’m “forced” to rely on God and finally turn to him in my need—realizing this is what I should have been doing all along and that everything I do is a gift from Him.