All and All

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Proverbs 3:5-6

We make decisions every day that read like a Dr. Seuss book. “Go here. Go there. Go everywhere.” Those decisions put us on rails that take us somewhere. How do we choose which rail(s) today? Do I call this person? Do I read this book? Do I pursue this business decision? My understanding is small and weakened by my flesh while the LORD’s wisdom is infinite and righteous.

Since I cut my finger open this last weekend I’ve been taking ibuprofen for the pain. Sometimes it would help, and sometimes it wouldn’t touch it. Last night I learned from a friend in medicine that ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory and not primarily a pain-reducer. If I had combined it with the pain-reducer Tylenol I would have experienced less discomfort.

My incomplete understanding caused me to go down a rail of more pain. The wisdom of someone in the field everyday provided the rail of relief. I have to choose the rail of my limited understanding or the rail recommended by my friend.

How much greater is God’s wisdom for this life! We have the broken rails of our senses and understanding, but we ought to trust the Lord’s rails of perfect wisdom. For the Christian that means (1) learning the wisdom of God in the word and revealed in Christ, (2) seeking direction through prayer in how to obey, and (3) following through in complete obedience.

Trust him with all your heart in all your ways.

-C.R.