Proverbs 16

Scripture

Proverbs 16:3,9

3Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.9 In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

Observation

Solomon continues sharing his God-given wisdom, specifically as it relates to the plans we make. If we want our plans to succeed, it's time to lean in close and really consider these verses.

Understanding

Have you ever had something not go according to plan? Several years ago I was putting my son Noah to bed and before we prayed together I asked him, “What do you think you’re going to do tomorrow?” He replied after a short pause, “I’m going to Disneyland.” I chuckled, “I don’t think so. You have preschool tomorrow.” “No, I’m going to go to Disneyland.” Well you can guess what happened the next day. Let’s just say he was disappointed when I made him bring his backpack when we left the house that morning.If he wanted things to go according to his expectation and plan, he should have planned to do what I told him. It’s a simple analogy. We can plan whatever we want, but ultimately it’s the Father's plans that will succeed and be carried out. So if we want our plans to be established and for things to go according to our expectations, there’s only one way that will happen: Align our plans with God’s plans. Live for God’s glory and not our personal happiness.

The Message Version puts verse 3 this way:

Put God in charge of your work, then what you’ve planned will take place. If we let God sit on the decision making seat of our life, if we put him in charge of making the plans, only then can we know that our planning isn’t a waste of time.

Life Application

God, I seek you for your will for my life. Grant me and your church wisdom and guidance and help us to do your will. We commit all our plans to you! Give us the strength today to die to our desires and to live to glorify you. Amen.

- Levi Thompson