The word obstinate means stubborn or unwilling to change one’s mind or behavior. In the Bible, this quality is often shown in a negative way, especially when people resist God’s guidance. Being firm can sometimes be good, but when it turns into hardheartedness against truth, it leads to trouble.
Obstinate Hearts in Scripture
Pharaoh in Exodus is a well-known example of obstinacy. He refused to let Israel go, even after seeing God’s mighty hand. His stubbornness brought destruction on his land and people.
“But Pharaoh said, ‘Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.’” (Exodus 5:2)
“But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he would not let the Israelites go.” (Exodus 10:27)
“When Pharaoh saw that the rain and hail and thunder had stopped, he sinned again: He and his officials hardened their hearts.” (Exodus 9:34)
This shows how pride and obstinate hearts can blind people to God’s power.
Israel’s Stubbornness
Israel was often called “stiff-necked.” This phrase meant they resisted God, like an ox that refuses to move under a yoke.
“The Lord said to Moses, ‘I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people.’” (Exodus 32:9)
“They are a nation without sense, there is no discernment in them.” (Deuteronomy 32:28)
“But they refused to pay attention; stubbornly they turned their backs and covered their ears.” (Zechariah 7:11)
“Yet the people did not turn to him who struck them, nor inquire of the Lord Almighty.” (Isaiah 9:13)
God warned His people that obstinacy would bring judgment, but repentance would bring blessing.
Warnings Against Obstinacy
The prophets often spoke against hardheartedness. God longed for His people to repent, but they resisted Him.
“But the house of Israel is not willing to listen to you because they are not willing to listen to me, for all the Israelites are hardened and obstinate.” (Ezekiel 3:7)
“Do not be stiff-necked, as your fathers were; submit to the Lord. Come to the sanctuary, which he has consecrated forever. Serve the Lord your God, so that his fierce anger will turn away from you.” (2 Chronicles 30:8)
“But they made their hearts as hard as flint and would not listen to the law or to the words that the Lord Almighty had sent by his Spirit through the earlier prophets. So the Lord Almighty was very angry.” (Zechariah 7:12)
Obstinacy vs. Obedience
While stubbornness against God is condemned, Scripture praises firm faith. Paul urged believers to stand strong in Christ. The difference is what the heart resists: truth or sin.
| Trait | Obstinate (Negative) | Steadfast (Positive) |
|---|---|---|
| Attitude | Prideful, resistant to correction | Humble, rooted in truth |
| Focus | Self-will | God’s will |
| Result | Hard heart, separation from God | Faithfulness, blessing |
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong.” (1 Corinthians 16:13)
“So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.” (2 Thessalonians 2:15)
Turning from Obstinacy
The Bible calls us to soften our hearts and listen to God’s Word.
“Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” (Hebrews 3:15)
“Wash the evil from your heart and be saved. How long will you harbor wicked thoughts?” (Jeremiah 4:14)
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)
Obstinacy closes the door to wisdom. Obedience opens the way to peace with God. The choice is whether to cling to self or submit to the Lord.
