Taking The Bull By The Horns

We use the idiom, “take the bull by the horns” when we are faced with a difficult decision that requires our attention. We tend to feel insecure, fearful, or worried about whether or not we have what it takes to tackle problems head on. Situations like starting something new, post traumatic stress disorders from past traumas, or simply worrying about the unknown can make us feel uneasy. And many of us tend to worry about future events that we have no control over.

A pastor gave testimony on a podcast about his past as a thief. One day he was convicted about making things right with God. He wanted to apologize to the victim and pay for the item he stole. Although he was anxious about the outcome, his desire to make things right with God outweighed his fear. So he decided to “take the bull by the horns” and hope that it all goes well.

Much to his surprise, the victim accepted his sincere apology. Suddenly that burdened he had was lifted. Later in life when he became a pastor and shared his testimony, a man who heard his story was convicted and wanted to confess, but was worried things could go terribly wrong because the victim was a business owner who happened to be his father’s client. He feared that his father would lose that account and they might face legal complications.

Yet, the pastor encouraged the thief to “take the bull by the horns” and do it anyway. I imagine that he reminded the man that doing things God’s way is best and to leave the consequences up to Him. Perhaps he even prayed with the young man before he sought for forgiveness from the victim.

The pastor offered the man a ride to the business to speak to the owner. The pastor waited patiently in the car. After a few minutes, the man walked out smiling. He told the pastor that not only was he forgiven, but the victim offered him a job. The business owner stated, “It is rare to find good help—much less—honest people. His stress was immediately relieved and his faith in God was strengthened.

Confession is a powerful act of humility and vulnerability. It requires us to confront our mistakes head-on and take responsibility for our actions. While it may be difficult to admit when we have done wrong, the act of confessing can lead to healing and reconciliation.

Not every situation may be taken as lightly as in the case of the two men mentioned. However, it is important to remember that confession is not just about seeking forgiveness from others, but also about acknowledging the harm we have caused and taking steps to make amends.

Ultimately, confession is a necessary step in the process of growth and self-improvement. Moreover, by owning up to our mistakes and seeking forgiveness, we can move forward with a clear conscience and a renewed sense of purpose.

Sometimes God allows us to experience hardships just so that we can see Him move on our behalf especially when we seek Him diligently for help. Regardless of how things may turn out, God expects us to do the right thing. With that mindset, it will be easier to overcome many challenges that we face.

Jesus, our Lord and Savior, also took the bull by the horns when He had to tread on a road marked with suffering. There was no exception to the hardships He had to endure as a mortal living among us, just so that we can follow in His footsteps leading to our salvation and sanctification in Christ.

However, it is crucial for Christians to be vigilant and guard against giving in to sinful desires. We can track many of our past dilemmas to fleshly actions. This only opens the door for the devil to wreak havoc in our lives. By staying rooted in God’s Word and living a life of obedience and holiness, believers can resist the schemes of the enemy and stand firm in their faith.

It is a constant battle, but with God’s strength and guidance, we can overcome any adversity that comes our way. Ultimately, our salvation in Christ is secure, but we must remain steadfast in our commitment to following Him and resisting the temptations of the evil one.

As it written, “We are not fighting against humans. We are fighting against forces and authorities and against rulers of darkness and powers in the spiritual world.” Ephesians 6:12

It is our natural instincts to take matters into our own hands, but being in Christ means going to God first about all matters. He will help us navigate through our problems. However, there are times we will need to completely surrender to God to handle an issue. God governs all of His creations. Only He can even make the bull bend his knee before Him.

There will be many difficult moments to work through as long as we live in this world. So we must be brave and muster up our strength to endure troublesome times. As we can see, living in this world is increasingly more difficult. It proves God’s word to be trustworthy because the prophesies of thousands of years ago have come to pass. With looming end of days nearing, God expects us to use His full armor to help protect us against these times.

“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.” Proverbs 3:5-6

“If we don’t give God a chance to prove Himself, we will never get to see Him move on our behalf.”                                                                                                                                        ₋₋Rise Belardo