Pondering Proverbs

A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines their steps. Proverbs 16:9

Perhaps this proverb is most appropriate for Valentine's Day/ How often have you heard or even used the words, “I’ve set my heart on…” and then the description of some treasured desire follows.

But what is your deepest desire? I’m talking about the most heartfelt hopes and dreams you have for how your life may unfold and who you will become. Whether better relationships, a successful business, increased energy, or enjoying motherhood, cultivating worthy desires is crucial to a joy-filled life.

It has been said that desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices determine our actions,” which determines who we become. Here is the formula, in simpler terms:

Desire→Priorities→Choices→Actions→Who We Become

But our proverb also states, “but the Lord determines our steps”. Is it then a question that contentment comes when our desire and the will of God coincides? Well yes.

Philip Bliss in the mid 19th century wrote the hymn, “I am so glad that our Father in heaven” that contains the verse.

If one should ask of me, how can I tell?

Glory to Jesus, I know very well!

God's Holy Spirit with mine doth agree,

Constantly witnessing Jesus loves me.

A person can plan out every aspect of their life. That does not mean planning is wrong—but what we plan needs to be prepared in a spirit of humility and obedience. If we seek God's will and walk by the Spirit in the light of God's Word, the Lord will guide his steps.

God of enduring love

When our steps in life our unsure,

When the way to go is unclear,

Guide our path

God of enduring love

When life throws us curveballs,

When things look bleak,

Strengthen us.

God of enduring love

When we find ourselves surrounded by too much stuff,

When we want more and more to satisfy us,

Draw our hearts to you.

God of enduring love

When we lost our hope,

When we grieved and grieved some more,

Hold us in your arms.

God of enduring love

When we are drowning in a sea of unknowing 

When we are overwhelmed by the tasks of work and life,

Lift us up into your hands of love.