“A whip for the horse, a bridle for the donkey, and a rod for the backs of fools!”

The use of a whip and a bridle in this verse does not imply pain or punishment. They are used for communication. My granddaughter is a competitive rodeo rider—barrels and that sort of thing—and she is very good. She doesn’t carry a whip. I watch her lean forward during some of her runs and whisper in her horse, Flynn’s, ear. She has won numerous times. No serious rider plans to hurt their horse. With people, there are times when discipline or punishment is necessary when we don’t listen and learn from God’s wisdom. The very few times Flynn has been rebellious, there has turned out to be something causing that response—at times, an injury or illness causing him discomfort or pain. God also desires to lead His children with kindness and gentleness. In the same way, a good parent has no desire to punish or discipline their child. God is committed to conforming us to the image of Jesus. We can go in partnership with Him or kicking and screaming. How it happens is somewhat determined by us, but He has predetermined to get us there. Today, join Him in the process. #BeTheEdge

“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.” Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭29‬ ‭NIV‬‬