Proverbs 16 

"The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord." ( v1)

"All the ways of a man are clean in his sight, but the Lord weighs the motives." (v2) 

"The mind of a man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps." v9 

"There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." (v25)

Four verses in this chapter emphasize the point that many people don't get.. God is sovereign!  We try to make our own plans... are encouraged to have a 5 year plan.. or to "follow our dreams".  Yet, in truth, we do not know what tomorrow holds.. in fact we do not know what the next hour holds!  But, we have a great God who knows ALL things and has a plan for us that is greater than anything we can think up. So.. what do we do?  Make no plans?  Not at all... 

"Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established. The Lord has made everything for its own purpose." (v3-4a)   The psalmist wrote, "The Lord will accomplish ( or perfect) what concerns me..." fulfilling His purposes in and for us.   In His lovingkindness, He will do what only He can do.. as long as we are willing. 

The wisdom of God's word helps us to make the right kinds of plans... 

Plans that include "lovingkindness and truth"... walking in the "fear of the Lord." We are exhorted to walk in ways that are "pleasing to the Lord".  We are to pursue righteousness and not money; Justice and not injustice; using " a just balance".. speaking what is right.. valuing wisdom and understanding more than anything money can buy.  We are called to be humble and trust in the Lord; discerning and sweet in our speech. We are reminded that to he who is "slow to anger is better than the mighty".

No matter who we are.. a king or a peasant.. we recognize that "every decision is from the Lord".. not by chance when a "lot is cast".  We have been given the gift of wisdom and understanding.. through God's word.  

"He who gives attention to the word shall find good, and blessed is he who trusts in the Lord." 

Father in heaven, You are holy and wondrous in all Your ways.  We praise You for You are worthy of all praise.  Establish our paths in Your ways, Lord. We want to walk in Your righteousness and truth. Fill us with Your Spirit of wisdom and understanding that we might please You in all we do and say.  In Jesus' name, amen.