Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not rely on your own understanding;
in all your ways know him,
and he will make your paths straight.
(Proverbs 3:5-6)
When faced to make a decision and do not know all the facts, would you rely on your limited thinking, or turn to someone more knowledgeable or experienced? If your car breaks down, would you try to repair it yourself without knowing the cause, or would you contact an auto mechanic (or at least watch a YouTube video first for a DIY solution)? If you’re feeling sick and want to know why, would you self-diagnose, or consult a doctor or nurse? If we’re to turn to experts for clarity when we don’t have the answers, what more then, should we trust in the Lord and not depend on our limitations?
Why should we not lean on our own understanding? Our hearts are more deceitful than anything else (Jer. 17:9) and we do not know what tomorrow brings (James 4:14). This doesn’t mean we’re not allowed to use our understanding, but we can live our lives as long as they are aligned with God’s will (James 4:15).
When we trust in God and His will, we can’t go wrong as He straightens our paths (5:6). We know trusting in God is what He wants and calls us to do, but why? Throughout the Scriptures, the Lord calls us to trust in Him because of who He is. Who is God and why should we trust in Him with all our hearts?
- God is an everlasting rock (Is. 26:4).
- He is our refuge (Ps. 62:8).
- God is the strength of our heart and our portion forever (Ps. 73:26).
- He cares about you and me (1 Pt. 5:7).
- The Lord is our help and our shield (Ps. 115:9-11).
- His wisdom and knowledge are so deep (Rm. 11:33).
- All things are from him, through him, and for Him (Rm. 11:36).
What does your heart lean on? Do you depend on God in prayer or do you try to handle problems on your own? Are you relying on your own ability or do you turn to God’s Word?