Proverbs 3:5-6

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 straight your paths.

“Trust” is a matter of decision, which means to depend on it. You have complete confidence in the object you are trusting, that you “lean on” for support, and you rest your life fully and totally, in this case, “upon the Lord.” Our confidence grows as we spend time with Him in God’s Word. It is God’s Word that reveals to us His character, His promises, and His way of doing and being right.

We trust the Lord “with all our heart.” We are all in. This is a total commitment, and we have left ourselves with no other options.

“Do not lean (or rely) on your own understanding.” Some people think that those of us who walk by faith don’t know how to think for ourselves or use our brains. This is not what Solomon, the writer of Proverbs, is saying. Solomon is not suggesting that we don’t use common sense or put thought into problem-solving. Solomon came to find out that our insight and understanding are limited, and God’s wisdom is limitless. We shouldn’t try to figure out everything on our own and don’t assume you know it all. The most intelligent decision we can make is to seek God’s counsel and wisdom for daily living.

“In all your ways, acknowledge him.” In other words, allow God to lead you. Allow His thoughts to become your thoughts. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do and everywhere you go. Plant God’s Word into your heart. God speaks to us through His Word, providing wisdom, direction, and correction.

“He will make straight your paths.” God is interested in removing every obstacle from our path and will make the way plain. There will be no guesswork to figure out the decision you need to make or the direction you should go.

Be completely confident in God today and every day. He will speak to you, and He will guide you. He will never leave your side.

Pastor Tom