What is the path ahead of you like?  Maybe it seems difficult or like the destination is unknown.  Or maybe it feels familiar and well worn, like you are trudging along the same old lane.  While none of us is in control of the things that lie across the path ahead of us, trusting in God and living wisely will guide our steps and determine our destination.

This wise guidance from Proverbs can keep us oriented in the right direction no matter which path we are on:

1. Ask for wisdom, insight, and understanding (Proverbs 2:2-3).  By doing this we acknowledge God as the source in our lives as we humbly depend on Him.
2. Be humble (3:5-7).  Humility puts us in a posture where we can receive from God.  We trust Him rather than ourselves.  This protects us from missteps we might take out of pride!
3. Love people in heart and action (3:3).  Who in your life could you notice or invest in relationship with?
4. Be faithful in the small things (3:3).  Our days are filled with seemingly small, even mundane, responsibilities.  We may long for something bigger and more impressive, but these small things add up to show forth faithfulness that has an impact.  What responsibilities are yours today?  How does this kind of faithfulness bless others and you, as well?
5. Honor God with monetary and tangible possessions (3:9).  How can you be generous or use what God has given you?
6. Keep your eyes open for the opportunity to do good (3:27).  Be ready to respond to interruption or opportunity today!
7. Pay careful attention to your heart and keep turning it to God (3:5, 4:25).  Our hearts tend toward selfishness and negativity.  When you’re aware of this, use it as an opportunity to confess, leave it behind you, and receive God’s help to change.

The wisdom in Proverbs includes blessings that stem from this way of living!  God offers wisdom, discernment, and understanding (Proverbs 2:6-7).  He becomes our shield, guarding us, and watching over us (2:7-8).  Wisdom enters our hearts then discretion and understating protect us as we make wise decisions (2:9-11).  We typically gain favor and success in the sight of God and others (3:4).  God makes our paths straight, and He causes our path to shine ever brighter (3:7, 4:18).

Our path may become treacherous, and it may even be unclear where it is taking us.  But choosing to live by Proverbs’ wisdom makes our footing more sure and helps us to become more confident journeyers.  While we can’t control our path, we can always choose to follow this kind of wise living.

Let your eyes look directly forward,
    and your gaze be straight before you.
Ponder the path of your feet;
    then all your ways will be sure.  ~ Proverbs 4:25-26 (ESV)

Which idea above is your heart most drawn to?  How will you live it out?