5“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
As Jesus was approaching His crucifixion, the disciples were devastated that He would be leaving them. Jesus attempted to comfort them, and He reassured them that they would not be left as orphans, but that He would continue to be with them through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. There was a catch, God was only sending the Holy Spirit to those who love Christ, those whose faith that Jesus is the Son of God has transformed their hearts such that they deliberately strive for the highest good: God’s will. They cared about Jesus, and Jesus cared about them, therefore the Father knew it would be best not to separate man any longer from the God they loved. They were promised “another Helper (like Jesus), to be with you forever” (John 14:16) who would teach and bring to their remembrance everything He taught (verse 26). The Holy Spirit would bring them God’s peace (verse 27). That sounds a lot like God’s “recipe” in Proverbs 3:5-6 doesn’t it?
- Trust/love God whole heartedly (5a)
- Place the trust of our will and understanding as secondary to God (5b)
- Repeat for ALL aspects of our live (6a)
- RESULT: God is there to guide and direct you! (6b)
Do you love Jesus whole heartedly as Jesus and Proverbs direct? Here are some questions to help you think through that…
What would be different about how you went about your day, if Jesus were not a a part of it? Would those around you notice a difference in you without Jesus? Do you live your day-to-day life operating on your own wisdom, discernment, and understanding, or are you striving to rely fully on His wisdom, discernment and understanding? Would you notice if Jesus was no longer beside or in you? Would you miss Jesus and His presence?
Reflection Questions From Sunday
- Could it be that the Holy Spirit is not manifesting Himself in our lives because we do not actually love Christ?
- How much do we truly love Christ when we elevate other things as a higher priority than Him in our lives?
- If our intention is anything less than seeking “Lord, what will glorify YOU the most in this situation?” than we have mistakenly elevated something(s) else to be of greater significance to us, other than Christ, in our lives.
Pray for God to increase and grow your love for Him, that you would desire to desire Him more. That you would love the lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
