TRUSTING IN GOD ABOVE ALL ELSE

 

 

The smarter and more acclaimed we become, the more we begin to trust in our own reasoning at the expense of our relationship with our Savior. Therefore, Scripture warns:

·       Proverbs 3:5–8 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.

Success makes us wise in our own eyes, but God’s chastening leads us back to the Scriptures, as David had written:

·       Psalm 119:67–72 Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word…It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes. The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.

King David had to learn the hard way, and learn he did! Therefore, we warned his son Solomon against being “wise in his own eyes”:

·       1 Chronicles 28:9–10 “And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the LORD has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it.”

However, Solomon leaned to far to his own understanding and fell. We must seek Him as our chief hope and delight! Evidently, we have become too comfortable and have forsaken the Word of God for our own “wisdom.” Leaning to this “wisdom” has become a nauseating reminder of our foolishness. Therefore, do not be surprised by God’s refining yet gracious fires.