Read
21We may make a lot of plans,
but the Lord will do
what he has decided.
22What matters most is loyalty.
It's better to be poor
than to be a liar.
23Showing respect to the Lord
brings true life—
if you do it, you can relax
without fear of danger.
Reflect
We like making plans. We have expectations for the future. We have been created with this extraordinary capacity to think about the future. We plan our professional and our family lives. We make plans for travel, for holidays. Perhaps we also plan concrete ways in which to serve the Lord. That’s desirable.
If we’re seeking to live according to his wisdom (see v 20), we can be encouraged to expect that our plans will accomplish God’s will. The apostle James said, “You ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’” (James 4:15, NIV). Paul himself waited for God’s leading in the middle of his numerous plans (see Acts 18:21). So it’s normal and healthy to make plans, but it’s essential to place them all at the feet of the Lord so that they succeed and produce fruit to his glory.
In our human relationships, we look for kindness. We need it so badly, and how much a daily dose of this precious ingredient can brighten our day! Unfortunately, it isn’t always on hand, but since others are also longing to receive it, we can begin by giving it to them and we can be sure that it will be well received.
At the end of the day, and above all, we can expect that God will provide for our needs. As we respect and honour him, he is faithful to his commitment and he will meet our needs. We won’t lack anything! Glory to his name!
Respond
Lord, I praise you because you have created me with the capacity to make plans. I can carry out many of them, but I pray that your will be done and that my life is productive for you. Thank you for your steadfast love. Thank you for providing for all my needs. Amen.
Gérald Emery
Born in Switzerland, Gérald Emery moved to Quebec when he was 18 in order to operate a dairy farm. Six years later, he went into the ministry, serving in Quebec City for six years and in Portneuf for nine years. In addition, he taught for nine years at the bible college (Institut Biblique du Québec) in Longueil. He has been pastor of a church in Gatineau since 2011. Emery holds a bachelor’s degree in theology (BTh) from Eastern Pentecostal Bible College, and he has almost completed his master’s degree, studying at St. Paul University in Ottawa.