Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established. — Proverbs 16:3

Behind this promise is a very simple question: How do I define success for my plans? The answer is also very simple: to praise God for his grace (cf. Eph. 1:6, 12, 14). When we give our works and plans to God, we give them over to God’s will (James 4:13–15), trust that God will be glorified through them (Col. 3:17), and realize that we can’t control our own steps (Prov. 16:9). God wants to bless us and give us power, but not for our own selfish reasons (James 3:16), but for our eternal good (Romans 8:28) and God’s glory. When we give our plans and work to the Lord, we say, “Not my will, Father, but yours be done,” just like Jesus did.

 

Thought

Behind this promise is a very simple question: How do I define success for my plans? The answer is also very simple: to praise God for his grace (cf. Eph. 1:6, 12, 14). When we give our works and plans to God, we give them over to God’s will (James 4:13–15), trust that God will be glorified through them (Col. 3:17), and realize that we can’t control our own steps (Prov. 16:9). God wants to bless us and give us power, but not for our own selfish reasons (James 3:16), but for our eternal good (Romans 8:28) and God’s glory. When we give our plans and work to the Lord, we say, “Not my will, Father, but yours be done,” just like Jesus did.

 

Prayer

Father, I want to do what you want. I want to work toward your glory. I want to do certain things. But if these plans aren’t for your glory or aren’t good for my family or those I have power over, then please stop me from doing them and lead me to other ways I can bless others. I want what I do to bring glory to you. I want to follow your grace wherever it goes. I give you my ways, my plans, and all the things I do. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.