Being stubborn

Exodus 8:32
"But Pharaoh again became stubborn and refused  to let the people go"

Stubborness can be described as a person showing total determination not to change one's mind, attitude or position about a particular thing. Despite heated arguments and pressure, a stubborn person may refuse to cooperate . They can be obstinate and hard-hearted, difficult and pig-headed in their approach. Data taken from (the Free Dictionary online).

Pharaoh's example of having a hard heart and stubbornness was through total unbelief in God. However, we as Christians can come pretty close at times especially if someone has hurt our feelings in the church or through lack of grace when we feel that we are right and everyone else is wrong. This type of stubbornness can lead us to being unteachable if we're not careful. Our attitude can stink and then we end up completely on the verge of ruining our credibility.

The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 4: 1 - 3 'Therefore, I the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with long-suffering, bearing with one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the body of peace.'

Sometimes we can be certain that we're right about a particular thing. In this case we need to talk the subject through with whoever it is that has caused you an upset or disagreement, if this is at all possible. Failing that, run it by a pastor or leader to gain some wisdom on the subject. Whatever happens, avoid the temptation to be stubborn, claiming, 'I'm right and no matter what, I will not change my opinion.' all this does is drive a wedge between  us and the peace of the Holy Spirit lifts off of us. (Not leaves us - ever, but we seem to lose our anointing).

We've all been stubborn at times. Come and live with me for a week or so and you'll discover that I am far from perfect. But then again, we are all the same in various levels.

Is there anyone that you may have offended in this way. Is it possible to speak with them and put things right, so that the unity of the Spirit can flow again. Stubbornness can lead to hard-heartedness. That is something we really need to avoid.