“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on…….” James 1:26.
Verse chosen from today’s Bible reading: Isaiah 29-31, and James 1.
An animal on a loose rein is going to have a lot of leeway. You had better be taking them along a wide road!
Tighten the rein when the path you are on is narrow and the sides are off-limits.
Today’s verse in James goes on to reference the tongue. I am adding that my life in its entirety must be under His tight rein.
I mention frequently the problems that come when I get loose with God. When other things become more important. When He becomes an after-thought.
Before I know it, something gets my attention back to my godlessness and I know that a correction is essential.
God knows what is best for me. He knows me entirely. Under His tight rein I will be into places where I can BEST serve Him. I can often think of places for activity that I think are best but that is during those “loose rein” times. How much time have I wasted chasing my own plans!
I need to be close to God 24/7. In my heart of hearts, I want to do exactly what He wants me to do. But why don’t I? Too much separation. Too much time spent unengaging Him. Tie it to today’s theme: too much of a loose rein.
“Lord, I need You in charge of me every second of every day. Prick my conscience when I get loose from You. I know that that arrangement is doomed to failure. I love You and want to spend every hour connected to You. Help me, I beg.”
Are you under a tight rein or a loose rein with God?