Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3 NIV
Chapter sixteen in the Book of Proverbs presents the wisdom of submission to the word and will of God. In all things we do there is either righteousness or unrighteousness. In every plan of our hearts, there are godly ways to achieve our intended ends and there are corrupt means by which we may attempt to do the same. Solomon’s advice to the reader is to commit to the Lord, allowing God to establish our plans.
If we commit to the Lord, we align ourselves with truth. When we commit to the Lord, God establishes our plans with his divine wisdom and supreme intelligence. Acting in step with the goodness of God, we avoid the pitfalls of sinful behaviors. In this way, our efforts are less likely to cause problems for ourselves and others. Those of us who seek God and submit to his will position ourselves for greater success on this earth and in eternity.
Trust in the Lord
We read in Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. KJV” With these words, Solomon teaches the value of trusting God even more than we trust ourselves. As fallible, finite beings, it is reasonable to place our trust in God who is infallible and infinite in his wisdom and understanding.
Individually, and as a whole, mankind has partial understanding. Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 13:12, “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. KJV” When we commit to the Lord, we begin a journey into eternity where God reveals to us the truth of all things.
God knows all things. The Lord knows each of us and our circumstances better than we know ourselves. His plans never fail and so it benefits the believer to seek God in all things and to align with his will. As Solomon wrote in Proverbs 19:21, “There are many devices in a man’s heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall stand. KJV”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for revealing yourself through scripture. Thank you for the example of righteousness we receive in Jesus Christ. Guide me to live according to your will. Help me to establish the desires of my heart as I place my trust in you and you alone. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Spirit of Our God
