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. Prov. 3:5-6
Dear Jesus, as this day begins, many of us are facing big decisions with immediate repercussions and little decisions with long term consequences. We need the wisdom, guidance, and peace you alone can give. It’s a joy to come before your throne of grace confident of your audience, grateful for your advocacy, and resting in your authority.
Jesus, we praise you for being an engaged Shepherd, not an absentee landlord. Even as we make plans in our hearts, you are actively ordering our steps (Prov. 16:9). Oh, the freedom and peace this brings! We don’t have to be panicky and we dare not be presumptuous. You are the Lord who “opens doors no one can shut” (Rev. 3:8). And the converse is just as true; you also shut doors no one can open. Our future is tied not to making the right decisions but to trusting the right Lord.
Because of your great love for us in the gospel, we’re learning to trust you with all of our heart and with everything in our hearts—with our longings, fears, hurts, and dreams. To acknowledge you in all of our ways isn’t to make you Lord but to recognize and to rest in your lordship. We can no more make you Lord of something than we can make water wet, chocolate good or a rainbow beautiful. You are who you are, Jesus. Hallelujah! You’re not just a good Shepherd, you are a sovereign Shepherd. So in surrender to the occupied throne of heaven, we anticipate straight paths as we seek to make decisions to your glory, by your grace.
For those of us dealing with job changes, financial stresses, relationship issues, housing decisions, and health matters, show yourself to be both merciful and mighty, Jesus. May your mercy keep us gentle and may your might trump our impatience.
For those of us having to make important decisions for the people we love, be huge and present. Long-term care for aging parents; the “right” education for our kids; the best treatment for friends in the destructive vortex of addictions—make the way clear, Lord. And as Prince of Peace, give us your peace as we wait upon you.
Jesus, in these coming days, as we wait upon you, write stories of redemption that will reveal your glory, showcase your grace, and leave us reveling in your goodness and timing. So very Amen we pray, in your trustworthy and beautiful name.
