Don’t Lean on your own understanding

Don’t Lean on your own understanding

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5-6

Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, had everything—wealth, status, and power. He lacked nothing, and by worldly standards, he had all the resources to secure his son's future. Yet, as he writes to his son, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom, he does not emphasize wealth, education, or social standing as the keys to a successful life. Instead, he offers an unexpected command:

"Do not lean on your own understanding."

If anyone had reason to trust in their own wisdom, it was Solomon. Yet, he acknowledges that even the sharpest human intellect is limited and flawed. True success, he teaches, is not found in self-reliance but in complete dependence on God.

This passage teaches us that while logic, experience, and reasoning are valuable, they should never replace God's guidance. Our understanding is shaped by emotions, circumstances, and incomplete knowledge, but God sees the full picture. Trusting Him means surrendering our limited perspective for His infinite wisdom.

The Alternative: Acknowledge God in all your ways.

To acknowledge God means more than just believing He exists. It means:

  • Recognizing His presence in every situation
  • Seeking His guidance in every decisions
  • Submitting to His will rather than insisting on our own way

Acknowledging God isn’t a passive thought—it’s an active, daily choice to invite Him into every area of life. How do we acknowledge God? Here are three practical ways to do this daily:

Start Every Decision with God

  • Before making choices—big or small—pause and pray.
  • Ask: "Lord, what do You think about this?"
  • Example: Before changing jobs, moving, or making a financial commitment, take time to seek God’s perspective.

Live by God’s Word, Not Just Good Idea

  • Our wisdom is often shaped by emotions, culture, or past experiences.
  • Acknowledging God means making His Word the standard for our choices.
  • Example: When facing conflict, rather than responding based on feelings, acknowledge God by choosing forgiveness and love (Matthew 6:14).


Honor God in Daily Life

  • Acknowledging Him isn’t just for big decisions—it’s about walking with Him daily.
  • This includes honouring Him in conversations, work ethic, finances, and relationships.
  • Example: In business dealings, acknowledge God by choosing integrity over shortcuts.


What areas of your life have you been managing on your own? Today, choose to acknowledge God—invite Him into every decision, every challenge, and every success. When we do, He promises to direct our paths.

Prayer:

Father, I confess that I often rely on my own wisdom. Help me to trust You fully, seek Your guidance, and acknowledge You in all my ways. Lead me in the path that honours You. Amen.

 

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