We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. Prov. 16:9 (NLT)
To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. Rev. 3:7 (NIV)
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 (ESV)
Heavenly Father, some decisions are “no brainers,” some require nothing more than sanctified common sense, and some choices are nothing more than a matter of personal preference. But other decisions tie us in knots, rob us of sleep, and keep us second-guessing. Today I’m praying for friends in this third category.
As these Scriptures remind us, you determine our steps and the outcome of our plans. This doesn’t mean we’re to be passive in our decision-making, but to trust that you are very engaged. You open doors we can’t shut, and you shut doors we couldn’t open with an army. Though sometimes we don’t like this in the moment, it’s is a huge blessing and comfort. We count on your constant care, rock-steady reliability, and sovereign might.
We have every reason to trust you with all of our hearts, because you loved us with all of your heart, by sending Jesus to be our Savior. Because of your matchless gift of Jesus, we can trust you to give us everything else we really need (Rom. 8:32).
Make our ways straight as we seek to honor you with decisions that concern our every-age children and our aging parent; decisions about employment and financial matters, health care and church life.
Grant us wisdom for messy relationships and hurricane recovery, Father. Give us straight paths as we walk through disruptive circumstances, expensive fixes, and unsure outcomes.
Father, thank you for teaching us that life isn’t primarily about making the right decisions, but trusting the right Lord—and that is Jesus. By faith, we now lean as fully upon you as we can. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.
