In his hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Prov. 16:9 (NIV)
Dear heavenly Father, this promise brings me immeasurable peace, humility, and joy. I’m so thankful to remember that you are robustly engaged in determining and directing all of our steps. You’re working all things together after the counsel of your will; and you’re working in all things for your glory and for our good. You open doors no man can shut and you shut doors that no man can open. Hallelujah, many times over!
Many years I labored under the arrogance and anxiety of assuming that if I prayed hard enough and long enough, I could know the specifics of your will for my life, well in advance of any decision needing to be made. Of course, my assumption was that if I was in your will, life would be enjoyable, pleasant, and hassle free.
If I bought the right car, it would never break down. If I chose the right house, the roof would never leak. If I married the right person, we’d never disagree. If I went to the right college, I’d get the right job and life would be all right. If I sent my kids to the right school, they would never act out, and would end up on the mission field. I guess I wanted you to be more like a genie granting my wishes, rather than a Father directing my life.
You’re most definitely honored when we work hard to make good plans, in keeping with the truth of the Scriptures. And it’s important for us to seek and heed the wise, prayerful counsel of good and godly friends. But help us to live with more confidence that Jesus is our actively engaged Good Shepherd, not a mere consulting partner; a very present Lord, not an absentee landlord; the reigning King over all things, not an impotent bystander with sweaty palms. Because the gospel is true, I’m confident your will is being done, on earth as it is in heaven. Father, anywhere you take us, is the best place to be—whether it’s into seasons of suffering, or foretastes of glory. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name
