Proverbs 16

Proverbs 16
Think back to when you were little. How many times did you answer the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”
More than you could count, right? Your answers may have ranged from astronaut to zookeeper, but one thing’s for sure — your thoughts were on the future from a very young age.
As a concept, the future is fascinating. From blank canvases to an unwritten page, analogies tend to focus on its limitless potential. The thought of doing whatever we want is exhilarating. But as we get older and begin planning what’s next, fear of the unknown often overwhelms our enthusiasm. For many of us, the future is a maddening mix of excitement and uncertainty.
In Proverbs 16, Solomon addresses the challenge of planning for the future. While we have the freedom to chart a course forward as we see fit, submitting our plans to God’s leading is the only sure way to ensure lasting significance (Proverbs 16:1-9).

Following God may require us to set aside personal agendas and aspirations, but it allows us to experience His faithfulness in a way that reshapes what we value and how we define success. Doing what’s right begins to take precedence over doing what’s easy, and the legacy we leave is one that values virtue over material reward (Proverbs 16:10-17).
Even as we plan our future according to God’s direction, we still have a responsibility to work hard and demonstrate discipline and self-control. It takes faith and humility to put our heart into plans we can’t control, but when we walk the path God reveals, the end result is always better than what we could have accomplished alone (Proverbs 16:18-33).
Reflect:

• When you think about the future, are you excited about the possibilities or fearful of the unknowns? Why do you think that is?
• Are you in need of peace in any area of your life? If so, take some time right now to ask God for the peace He promises to provide.
• Going forward, what’s one way you can seek God’s direction before making plans instead of making your own plans and asking Him to bless them?

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