We all act like know-it-alls from time to time.
We think we understand everything – from the smallest details to the biggest issues. But trusting too much in our own knowledge and understanding can lead to a whole lot of trouble. We think we know a faster route, so we ignore our GPS. We think we know how to assemble some IKEA furniture or a Lego set, so we toss out the instructions. We think we know how to swim, so we jump in the deep end. It usually doesn’t end well!
When we’ve got a decision to make, it’s tempting to make the decision based on our understanding. Now, to be fair, God never tells us to stop thinking when it comes to decisions. But he does remind us that our understanding is limited, while his wisdom is perfect.
This passage from Proverbs reminds us that true wisdom isn’t about trusting ourselves most, but about trusting the Lord most.
So when it comes to decisions, let’s recognize that God’s understanding is better than ours, and trust that God sees what we cannot see and knows what we cannot know. Then watch as he makes the path of your life straight through God-pleasing decisions.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Questions for the Whole Family
- When’s the last time you got into trouble because you thought you knew what you were doing?
- What’s your definition of “trust?”
- What are some decisions coming up this week where you could practice trusting in the Lord instead of your own understanding?
