“Go up to the land flowing with milk and honey. But I will not go with you, because you are a stiff-necked people and I might destroy you on the way." (Exodus 33:3)

A land “flowing with milk and honey” likely sounded pretty dreamy to the Israelites after walking through the desert for 40 years. But how satisfying would it be without the Lord accompanying them? I’d imagine it would be quite bitter instead of sweet. 

God tells Moses that He won’t go with them because the Israelites are a “stiff-necked” people. In other words, they are stubborn, uncompromising, and haughty. Ouch. Not exactly glowing descriptors. 

This idea of being “stiff-necked” has its origins from farmers who would use an ox to work the field. The farmer would use a goad, or a stick, to poke the ox in order to direct its path. An ox that stiffened its neck against the prompting of its master was useless to accomplish the work at hand. 

Recall that God brought the Israellites out of Egypt. He led them through the desert. He provided for them and protected them. Now, in this passage, He was preparing them to move into the land He had promised to their forefather, Abraham. 

However, despite God’s faithfulness to the Israelites, they became stiff-necked and disregarded His commands. And God has had enough. 

Do you find yourself digging in your heels sometimes? Choosing stubbornness instead of surrender? This can feel satisfying temporarily - but it is exhausting long term. 

Look at what happened to the Israelites. Out of Egyptian slavery, they were headed straight for the Promised Land. But in their persistent stubbornness, God said, “Take another lap.” They had to wander in the desert until that disobedient generation aged out and died.

Contrast this picture of stubbornness and struggle with Jesus’ invitation: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matt 11:28-30). 

Once again, we see this agricultural imagery. The yoke harnessed two oxen together - one stronger, the other weaker (or maybe stubborn?). The stronger set the pace while the weaker followed its lead and learned the best way to do their work. 

Which do you think is more satisfying? To “kick against the goads” and to be restless and unsatisfied? Or to come to Jesus, lay our burden down before Him, and follow His lead?

How will you accept the Lord’s invitation to lay your burden down and be yoked to Him today?