I’m Not Budging

Have you ever heard anyone use the statement “I’m not budging?” Normally we hear words like these when someone wants their way on a matter. However, such a stance has proven more than once to be devastating.  For instance, in the summer of 1986, two ships collided in the Black Sea off the coast of Russia. Hundreds of passengers died as they were hurled into the icy waters below. News of the disaster was further darkened when an investigation revealed the cause of the accident. It wasn’t a technology problem like radar malfunction-or even thick fog. The cause was human stubbornness. Each captain was aware of the other ship’s presence nearby. Both could have steered clear, but according to news reports, neither captain wanted to give way to the other. Each was too proud to yield first. By the time they came to their senses, it was too late. Was this not the case with King Saul when he refused to obey the command of God regarding the Amalekites? Was his attitude not the reason he was rebuked by Samuel and told “stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” In other words it’s as evil as it gets. The problem is we so often attribute such feelings as being inherent in the worst of sinners. Not true! I more often than not find myself wrestling with this culprit wanting to have my way. God speaks I refuse to listen; He gives a command I fail to obey. In essence by yielding to this inner sanctum of the will is to say “I’m not budging.” And if the truth be known you have been guilty of the same.  Added to it is the irony of such resistance. Are we not to treat the enemy with this kind of behavior rather than our Father who loved us and gave Himself for us?  Saul lost his kingdom due to being stubborn and so do we. God’s will is to enthrone rather than to dethrone. He wants us to be kings and priests but the only way to do that is to have the attitude of Jesus which was one of a submitted will. He refused to budge in respect to the Father’s will and word. Oh yes the words “I’m not budging” was certainly in His repertoire. When the devil tempted Him, the religious crowd ridiculed Him and His friends doubted Him He wouldn’t budge.  Having this level of stubbornness is the recipe for success. But used in the wrong way will result in certain defeat. How are you using yours?