WISDOM FOR PROGRESS IN LIFE (1)

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established” – Proverbs 16:3

Scriptures provide ample Light on WISDOM for PROGRESS in LIFE: “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established” (Pro.16:3). This passage reflects on the heart's intention to make plans and the Lord's rule over such planning: “A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (v.9). We’re encouraged to plan; but in submission to the Lord. The Light of Wisdom teaches us how to make the right decisions and advance in the right direction in life: But the path of the just is as the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day (Pro. 4:18). Committing our ways to God, with reverence, is the wise way to make plans and thereby enjoy progress in life.

Only the Lord knows the right things to do and the right ways to go in all circumstances (vv.1,9). Those who submit to God's Will and seek Him are in a better position than those who ignore or reject Him. Acting in accordance with the truth of God’s Word reduces the dangers of defeat or failure and enhances progress along life’s course: “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed. Evil pursues sinners, but to the righteous, good shall be repaid” (Pro.13: 20-21). When our efforts are fully entrusted to God’s Will and His control – when they are “committed” to Him – those labours are less likely to cause their own downfall.

Psalm 37:5 affirms this same truth: “Commit your way to the LORD, trust in Him, and He shall bring it to pass.” When Abraham charged his servant with the tough task of finding a bride for his son Isaac, rather than depend solely on his intelligence or preference, he asked the Lord to guide him to the right person, and was successful on the assignment (Gen.24:42-44). Moreover, upon finding Rebekah, the right person, he acknowledged and offered thanks to the Lord for guidance (Gen.24:48). When he asked her parents for permission to take her to Isaac, he further confirmed the Source of his Success by saying: “Do not hinder me, since the LORD has prospered my way" (Gen.24:56a).

When a believer sincerely depends upon the Lord for the understanding to do His will, he is not disappointed. Proverbs 3: 5-6 counsels: "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.” God’s Instruction to Joshua at the inception of his calling and ministry, is a worthwhile Model of Wisdom for Progress in Life: “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success” (Jos.1:8).