Proverbs 20

“A man’s steps are of the Lord; how then can a man understand his own way?” Proverbs 20:24 (NKJV)

On July 4, 1776, the American colonies formally declared their independence from British rule.  Their letter of declaration contains a rather iconic statement: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness…”  The ideas of personal independence and the freedom to pursue whatever makes us happy are deeply embedded into the value system of most American citizens, even to this day.  But is that notion Biblical?  While God’s Name (their Creator) is used, and it is undeniable that every human deserves a fair shot, are we truly free to do whatever we want?  In short, no.  We are free to choose, but we do not have the right to choose wrongly.  While our fellow citizens may say, “Live and let live!” God says, “Live for Me, and Me alone!”

God has a plan for each of our lives.  While we may believe we have the freedom to choose our own destiny, we are accountable to God for the choices we make.  He has created all mankind with both the intent and capacity to know Him in a saving way.  And for those of us who have surrendered our lives to His Lordship, He has a plan for you, a job in His Kingdom.  

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)

Many people (including many Christians) find that notion offensive.  They do resist a God to Whom we must be accountable.  They assume God is more like an all-loving genie who exists to fulfill our wishes.  Well, we may choose to go our own way, but God always brings us back to the place where we are forced to choose between our fleshly desires and His perfect plan for us.

“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 (NKJV)

Just as Abraham faithfully chose to follow God’s call to follow Him “to the place where I will show you” (Genesis 12:1), we, too, must choose to follow God through Messiah Jesus.  As Abraham did, let Jesus lead you to the place He is preparing.  Do not resist His leading or question His character!  There is no other Way to heaven.

“‘Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. And where I go you know, and the way you know.’”  Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?’ Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’” John 14:1-6 (NKJV)