Proverbs 16

<READ PROVERBS 16 ON BIBLE GATEWAY>

I like clarity.  I’m sure it’s one of the reasons I like the Proverbs so much.  There are lots of specifics - things we should do and others we should definitely avoid.  Although some of them are harder to live out than others (anyone have a problem with verse 32? I would often have better luck taking a city), the direction is pretty clear. Do this. Avoid that.

 

Then, just as I snuggle into my warm, cozy, black and white comfort zone, I see this:

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death. – Prov. 16:25

Wait, what? Is this the disclaimer for the rest of the book?  “By the way, even if you read all this and think you’re doing the right thing, well, maybe not.  It’s impossible for you to know, really.  So good luck with all that.”

 

One part of that fictitious footnote is true.  Left to our own devices, it is impossible for us to live our best lives, the lives that God passionately wants for us.  Even though I consider my mind to be completely sound and good, I have allowed it to reason me into more than a few thoroughly rotten decisions.  My emotions are no better.  Even worse than being merely uninformed, I think they may be actively working against me.  On my own, I am absolutely not to be trusted.

 

But fortunately, we as Christ followers are not left to face this life and its decisions all on our own.  Romans 12:2 tells us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”  How does this renewal occur?  Some of the most impactful ways are 

·       reading God’s words to us in the Bible

·       setting aside times of prayer

·       reminding ourselves in worship how good he is and all he’s done

·       living our lives alongside others who share our desire to grow in faith

In the process our minds become something much more than what we started with, something infinitely more worthy of our trust.

What personal practice has been most powerful in transforming your mind?

Much love,

Heather Joslin

Worship Ministry Creative Director