Proverbs 16:9 - God Is Sovereign! Even Over Delays.
Proverbs 16:9: God Is Sovereign! " Even Over Delays.
Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) In his heart a man plans his course, but the
LORD determines his steps.
COMMENTARY PEARL
No one likes to wait, but have you ever wondered why? It's
because delays show us that we are not in control. Someone or something
else is calling the shots. Although we may be able to identify the
immediate cause - like a traffic light or the long checkout line -
ultimately the One who controls all our delays is the Lord. Since He is
sovereign over everything in heaven and on earth, even our time and
schedules are in His hands.
This means that in every delay, we are actually waiting for
God in one way or another. You might have thought that the
expression "waiting upon the Lord" applies only to seeking guidance from
Him or an answer to prayer. But it can mean so much more when you
remember that He controls all your day-to-day inconveniences and
frustrations.
In the Christian life, learning to wait is vitally important
because until you do, you'll never be able to walk in obedience to God,
have an effective prayer life, or experience the peace of resting in
His loving sovereignty. We must learn to trust His judgment - about
not just the big events in our lives, but also the trivial ones
which cause us to become irritated, impatient, or even angry. If we're
sensitive to His instruction, each delay has a lesson.
The next time you face an unexpected or unwanted wait,
remember that it comes as no surprise to God. He wants to teach you
patience and increase your faith. He's more interested in developing
godly character than He is in making sure your schedule runs according
to your plans. [In Touch Daily Devotional by Charles Stanley at
www.intouch.org]
PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
Trust Me enough to spend ample time with Me, pushing back the
demands of the day. Refuse to feel guilty about something that is so
pleasing to Me, the King of the universe. Because I am omnipotent, I am
able to bend time and events in your favor. You will find that you
can accomplish more in less time, after you have given yourself to
Me in rich communion. Also, as you align yourself with My
perspective, you can sort out what is important and what is not.
Don't fall into the trap of being constantly on the go. Many,
many things people do in My Name have no value in My kingdom. To
avoid doing meaningless works, stay in continual communication with
Me. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I
will counsel you with My eye upon you. (Luke 10:41, 42; Psalm 32:8)
[Jesus Calling by Sarah Young]
I am with you and for you. When you decide on a course of
action that is in line with My will, nothing in heaven or on earth can
stop you. You may encounter many obstacles as you move toward your
goal, but don't be discouraged - never give up! With My help, you can
overcome any obstacle. Do not expect an easy path as you journey hand in
hand with Me, but do remember that I, your very-present Helper, am
omnipotent.
Much, much stress results from your wanting to make things
happen before their times have come. One of the main ways I assert My
sovereignty is in the timing of events. If you want to stay close to Me and
do things My way, ask Me to show you the path forward moment by
moment. Instead of dashing headlong toward your goal, let Me set the
pace. Slow down, and enjoy the journey in My Presence. (Rom. 8:31;
Psa. 46:1-3; Luke 1:37) [Jesus Calling by Sarah Young]
It is good that you recognize your weakness. That keeps you
looking to Me, your Strength. Abundant life is not necessarily health
and wealth; it is living in continual dependence on Me. Instead of
trying to fit this day into a preconceived mold, relax and be on the
lookout for what I am doing. This mind-set will free you to enjoy Me and
to find what I have planned for you to do. This is far better than
trying to make things go according to your own plan.
Don't take yourself so seriously. Lighten up and laugh with
Me. You have Me on your side, so what are you worried about? I can
equip you to do absolutely, anything, as long as it is My will. The
more difficult your day, the more I yearn to help you. Anxiety wraps
you up in yourself, trapping you in your own thoughts. When you look
to Me and whisper My Name, you break free and receive My help.
Focus on Me, and you will find Peace in My Presence. (Phi. 4:13; Pro.
17:22) [Jesus Calling by Sarah Young]
LINK FOR FURTHER STUDY ON THIS PASSAGE
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2019/20190112-1622.html
http://www.abible.com/devotions/2013/20130703-1330.html
LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT
Most Important Decision in Life:
http://www.youtube.com/embed/WGnEuGwvXqU?rel=0
A Man without Equal by Bill Bright:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiVa7UoruIo [old, but one of the best]
Importance of Choice:
http://creationhealth.com/CREATION-Health/Choice [click on video]
Seeking God Made Real: http://vimeo.com/31489782
Prayer Made Real: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tc8VdMV26VE
Musical Devotional On Christian Living:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcotY5K7T0c
Medical Seminar on Healthful Living by David DeRose, MD, MPH:
https://www.smartlifestyletv.com/lifestart
LINKS FOR BIBLE STUDIES
Lifting Up Jesus Bible Studies: http://www.liftingupjesus.net/
Amazing Facts Bible Studies:
http://www.amazingfacts.org/bible-study/bible-study-guides.aspx
Discover Bible Studies: http://studies.itiswritten.com/discover/
Glow Tract Video Bible Studies: http://www.bibleresearch.info/
ABible.com: http://www.aBible.com
LINKS FOR BIBLE PROPHECY SEMINARS
The Last Day of Prophecy by Pastor Doug Batchelor:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmGvdtMCf1aJTiC59-lPtuUMEq_uEn0BK
Restoring The Power by John Bradshaw:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRogO1SxoZN15Boa7BMon4BouVMdteVaq
Prophecies Decoded by Pastor Ron Clouzet:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1A435C5373550657
Last Day Prophecy: His Other Sheep by Pastor Gerald Babanezhad:
https://vimeo.com/162267518
