Read Proverbs 16:1-11

This morning we will focus on the first three verses of Proverbs sixteen.

Verse 16:1 - The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.  The word "preparations" has the idea of planning and/or reasoning.  While the word "answer" speaks of a reply or response.  The very ability to think, make plans, or to speak are gifts from God. He created us and so designed us. Moreover, along the path of the Christian life, it is the renewing grace of God which enables us to do what needs to be done.   Without the Lord's wisdom in creating in His image, we could do nothing. (See John 15:5)

Verse 16:2 - All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. Mankind, collectively and individually, is inherently self-righteous. By nature, we usually think we are right. From such self-righteous tendencies come pride and stubbornness. However, it is the Lord that ponders the human heart. Though we may claim to be right, it is God that makes that determination.  God will judge everything in our lives, including our words.  (See Matthew 12:36)

Verse 16:3 - Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. This is a great secret to changing our thoughts and feelings.  Life must be lived with God in view and for His pleasure.  When we begin living in such a manner, our hearts will be changed, and our thoughts established.  Therefore, in light of the preceding verses, it is our duty to commit our plans and our activities to the Lord for His direction, and in so doing, our plans (i.e., thoughts) will be established.  The thought also parallels that of Proverbs 3:5-6. How often we forge ahead with our own plans without really seeking God’s face first.  Then we are frustrated when things don’t work out. How much better to commit our plans to Him first and let Him direct us. We will never go wrong when He directs our paths.

Please take time to meditate upon God's Word throughout the day, it will establish your thoughts.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  How do you handle your God-given abilities to plan and/or reason?

2.  Have you ever acted without considering what God thinks? What was the result?

3.  Why do we do things without considering the spiritual implications of our lives?

4.  Have you committed your works to the LORD?  How has this decision impacted your life?