I have an old friend who used to say, “You can never fully trust yourself.” Over the years, I’ve come to realize just how true that is. On my very best day, my opinion is still clouded; my understanding of the facts is still influenced by so many factors that have come together to shape who I am today. The culture I live in and continue to absorb, the family and its influences that raised me, the friends and voices I hear most often, as well as the media—both traditional and social—all play a part. Even things that may seem as benign as what I ate last night can affect the way I feel today and influence my perception at any given moment. Even my understanding of Scripture and my ability to hear the voice of God can be compromised by these same influences. Thankfully, in this passage, Solomon makes it clear that God not only directs the desires and intentions of my heart, but He can also cause my actions to align with His will. Paul, in Philippians, reminds us that God is at work in us both to give us the desire and the ability to act according to His will. There is plenty of evidence around us of what happens when a person lives solely by the understanding of their own heart. When the fallen and broken nature of man rules a life, the result is always disappointing—and often dangerous. Our challenge as followers of Christ is to allow Him to lead us in His wisdom, which is so much deeper and safer than ours. Today, allow God to write your story. #BeTheEdge
“for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Philippians 2:13 NIV
