November 14, 2025
From Stiff-Necked Stance to Humble Submission
SHIRLEE ABBOTT
Lee en español
“But they, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands.” Nehemiah 9:16 (NIV)
Our new dog, a rescue with an unknown history, challenges my patience. The words “go for a walk” transform her into a bundle of furry energy. She dances while I lace my sneakers and connect her leash. She tugs me to the door as I collect my wallet and keys. But then, as I step toward the car, she hunkers down, splays her front legs, and stiffens her body.
Every time.
It’s a short drive to our favorite walking path, and it’s the high point of her day. But no words of encouragement, no doggie treat, no firm command, can move her willingly toward the open car door. I have to coerce her to get in the car — it’s the only way to get her where she wants to be.
My dog is a lot like the ancient Israelites. They wanted the good life but not what it took to get there: obedience to God. Hence, they suffered the consequences of defeat and oppression.
As the Israelite Nehemiah once confessed to God, “They, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands” (Nehemiah 9:16).
The Hebrew word qashah, translated here as “stiff-necked,” can also mean “stubborn, rebellious, or strong-willed” — words I might use to describe my dog’s refusal to jump in the car.
Do these same words describe me? You bet. I’m a lot like my stiff-necked pup.
Years ago, for example, I acquired a workbook with daily assignments to improve my prayer habits. After a few days, I set the workbook on the shelf and tried to ignore it. I knew it would transform my prayer life, but frankly, I didn’t want to change. For six weeks, I refused to go near that shelf. In the end, by God’s grace, humble submission won out. I was changed … for the better.
But that’s not the only time I’ve resisted obedience. There are friends I should call, but I often lack the patience and compassion to listen to their struggles, so I don’t pick up the phone. God nudges me to add certain folks to my prayer list, yet I’ve refused to write their names because they aren’t people I want to bless and pray for. My strong will sometimes overrides my desire to obey God.
Friends, are you a bit like my dog … and like me? Are you stiff-necked, resisting God’s commands? Do you want the blessing but without the obedience?
God’s plan is for our good, a lot like my plan to walk the dog. We can resist, but it makes better sense to trust Him instead and experience the joy of submission.
O Lord, forgive my stiff-necked stance, my stubborn refusal to do things Your way. Thank You for waiting patiently and changing my heart, rewarding my humble submission. I know You’re working things for my good. Teach me to trust and obey. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
OUR FAVORITE THINGS
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FOR DEEPER STUDY
Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (NIV).
Looking back, describe a time when you switched from a stiff-necked stance to humble submission to God. How did it work out?
If you’re digging in your heels and resisting God’s direction right now, what steps can you take to change your attitude? Share with us in the comments!
© 2025 by Shirlee Abbott. All rights reserved.
Proverbs 31 Ministries
P.O. Box 3189
Matthews, NC 28106
www.Proverbs31.org
