journey onWord with us

Beginning a new week is like starting a new journey. You have a desired direction, but not complete confidence in how you will arrive at your “end of week” destination. Take last week for example. Did it look the same in the rear view mirror, as you would have imagined on Monday? There were probably some twists and turns that were not envisioned. The problem with weekly detours is that they tend to derail us emotionally and spiritually.  Monday’s energy can quickly evaporate without a firm conviction to live with daily purpose, seeking His wisdom. Scripture gives solid counsel about our commitment and His desire to strengthen us.

Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.

II Chronicles 16:9(a)
For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.

In principle, men and women of faith have security in these verses. But there is often a great disconnect between our view of the verses, and how we apply them. Each new week gives the opportunity for commitment to the Father’s purpose. In reading the words from Proverbs 16:3 “and your plans will succeed,” it has become apparent to me that the success the Father blesses me with, may be different from what I had desired. But based on the fact that I know His, “eyes range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him,” daily detours aren’t as daunting. Our biggest issue is not what will happen this week, but how will we respond.

If your purpose this week is to make God and His wisdom a priority, you can be assured of His commitment, and confident in your plans. And even if there are daily detours, your confidence will be in His sovereign control. Choose to believe that this week can be lived in the reality of His blessing and His desire for you to succeed. Two friends from Scripture confirm the reality of trusting our Lord.

Psalm 5:3
In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning
I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.

I Chronicles 4:10
Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that you would
bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be
with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be
free from pain.” And God granted his request.

David sought the Lord in the morning with an expectant heart.  And Jabez came to God with simple requests … and God granted his request. It is my conclusion that a heart like David’s, and praying like Jabez, just might be what you are looking for as you tackle the stress of each new week. Expect the detours, plan to succeed and be committed to the Father’s will. Then…..simply enjoy each day!