Proverbs 3:5-6 – When You Don’t Understand

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do,
    and he will show you which path to take.”
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

Can you think of a time when you were perplexed by something that was happening around you? God knew we wouldn’t understand everything we encounter in this world. That’s part of what makes discovery and adventure so much fun. We can marvel at God’s handiwork, we can seek out answers, and then we overflow with gratitude when those lightbulbs turn on. Our understanding of the complexities of God’s plan will always be limited.

Context (Proverbs 3): In the book of Proverbs, the nuggets of wisdom often stand alone. In this case, Solomon focuses his lessons on trusting God and what wisdom looks like. The fact those two themes appear in the same chapter are no accident. But as for context with a proverb, it’s good to remember the author was King Solomon whom God had granted great wisdom.

The answer to so many questions in life is to trust God. In all of Solomon’s wisdom, that message rings out loud and clear in these verses. Solomon doesn’t just say trust, but this is trusting “with all your heart.” That’s a deeper commitment leading to a richer connection.

The concept of trusting God surfaces again and again in Scripture. Relying on our own power or understanding will never satisfy. Looking around at our neighbors’ successes can be tempting, but God will reveal his will about our lives to us, not from us copying someone else’s path.

This verse reminds us how we should be acting in the most important relationship of all. In addition to trusting, we need to be seeking God’s will. If we’re trusting in God already, then we can put our confident hope in receiving the direction. God’s will is much more than making a life decision here and there.

I know I’ve cried out to God at times wondering, “What’s next, God?” While I long for divine inspiration in those moments, I know God doesn’t always tell us whether to go left or right, or move here or move there, or take this new job or the keep the old one. But if we look to how God’s will for us would play out in each scenario, it’s easier to discern which is the better option. God’s will for us is always to love and serve him as well as love and serve others. I have seen doors open that usher in new opportunities to serve God. If that’s not directing my path, I don’t know what is.

But it starts with trusting God and having our eyes open to see these opportunities. Is God providing you with an occasion today to seize the moment and live in his will? Be watching.

Let’s pray. Lord, you are an amazing God whom I trust with my life. I know you always have my best interests in mind, even though I sometimes miss the message. Forgive me for those times when I am distracted or misread your cues. I never want to stray from you or head in an unhealthy direction. Thank you for each nudge and redirect keeping me close to you. It is such a comfort to know you are by my side. May I always trust you and follow your way. In Jesus’ name. Amen.