“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” —  Proverbs 3:5–6

Don’t let my limited way of thinking lead my life.

When we take a look at verse five we see what wisdom looks like: “Trust in the Lord.” Verse six tells us how to do it: acknowledge Him in all we do and let Him make our paths straight.

Learning to trust the Lord can be challenging.

Like Proverbs 3:5 points out, don’t lean on your own understanding. Why? Because our scope is limited, and our way of thinking is often flawed.

Our limited understanding is shaped by what we have seen in the past. Who we were yesterday and who our family has been can set our expectations for the future.

But this is where things get good.

Do you remember Ephesians 3:20?

You know, the verse that says:

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” — Ephesians 3:20

God’s plans for us extend far beyond the limitations set by our past.

In other words, God is not worried about who you have been because He knows who He created you to be.

(This would be a good time to shout 😄)

Because not only does He have that picture in mind, but He knows how to get you there.

Which is why we follow His plan, not ours. Just like He told Jeremiah, His plans are to give us hope and a future. — Jeremiah 29:11

God is not winging it, hoping everything turns out right. He is a master builder and meticulous in everything He does.

His purpose for you is so much greater than anything you could imagine or dream up for yourself.

So let God lead.

Prayer

What is one area of your life you’ve been trying to figure out on your own?

Lord, when I am overwhelmed and confused about what to do, will You remind me to turn to You?

Settle my heart with Your peace and safety. Will You lead my life? I trust Your wisdom and direction, knowing that Your plans for me are good. I trust that You can do exceedingly above all that I can ask or think. — Ephesians 3:20

I thank You for all You have already done. And I praise You for the work that You have started, and I know that You will finish it. — Philippians 1:6

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Action Step

Take a few minutes today to bring that specific area to God. Tell Him what you’re worried about, what you think should happen, and then surrender your plans to Him.

Deeper Dive

Psalm 40:4
Psalm 56:3–4
Psalm 37:5
Psalm 118:8