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What does Proverbs 3:5-6 mean?
We’ve all heard the inspiring scripture from Proverbs 3:5-6 that tells us to trust in the Lord with all our heart. But how can we do that when life doesn’t make sense? In this article, we’ll explore this verse and discover four steps to trusting God even when things don’t add up.
Mary, the Mother of Jesus
Imagine being fifteen and pregnant, not knowing what the future holds. Would you turn to your parents for support, or face motherhood alone? Would your friends stand by you, or judge you?
Mary, the mother of Jesus, faced a similar situation. As a betrothed young woman, being pregnant was frowned upon. She was contractually bound to marry Joseph, and if that contract was broken, she would lose everything.
Instead of facing judgmental stares from her peers, she would be shamed in front of the public. At best, Joseph would leave her, and she would be an outcast for life. At worst, she would be stoned.
Mary’s future was uncertain when she discovered she was pregnant. But then, an angel appeared to her:
“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
Although troubled by the angel’s words, Mary listened and learned that she had found favor with God. She would conceive and give birth to the Son of God. Despite not fully understanding how this could happen, Mary trusted in the Lord’s plan.
Joseph’s Choice
At the same time, Mary faced her pregnancy news, her betrothed, Joseph, also had a decision to make. He had to choose whether to continue with the marriage, knowing the child was not his, or cancel the contract and leave Mary to face the consequences alone.
Joseph, being a godly man, initially decided to end the marriage quietly to protect Mary’s reputation. However, an angel appeared to him in a dream and reassured him that the child was from the Holy Spirit. Despite the confusion and the seeming impossibility of the situation, Joseph trusted the angel’s message and married Mary.
Both Mary and Joseph exemplified unwavering trust in God, even when circumstances seemed illogical. They believed in God’s faithfulness and His plan for their lives, even without complete understanding.
Trusting God’s Plan
How does Mary and Joseph’s story impact our lives?
Just like Mary and Joseph, each of us has a role to play in God’s grand plan. Though we may put these biblical figures on pedestals, viewing them as perfect and unafraid, the truth is they were imperfect human beings just like us. Yet, God chose them to fulfill His purpose and bring the promised Messiah into the world.
When we face uncertain situations or encounter God’s plan that doesn’t seem to make sense, we can take inspiration from Mary and Joseph. We may not understand the big picture, but we can still step out in faith, trusting that God will guide us along the path He has set.
4 Steps to Trusting God Even When It Doesn’t Make Sense
Let’s delve into Proverbs 3:5-6 to discover the four steps to trusting God in perplexing times:
Step 1: Trust in the Lord with all your heart
God desires our wholehearted trust, not just a fraction of it. We should have unwavering faith in Him.
Step 2: Lean not on your own understanding
Our understanding may be limited, but God’s perspective is infinite. We must acknowledge that our comprehension falls short and rely on His wisdom.
Step 3: In all your ways acknowledge Him
Recognize that all blessings come from God. Gratefully acknowledge His provision in all areas of our lives.
Step 4: He shall direct your path
Trusting God leads to divine guidance. When we trust Him, He will lead us according to His perfect plan.
Remember, God’s plan may not always make sense to us, but we can trust that He is in control and will bring clarity in due time.
One day it will all make sense
You may feel like you don’t have it all together or understand God’s plan for your life. It’s okay if the bigger picture seems unclear. Just like Mary and Joseph, take that first step in faith. Trust God to guide you, one step at a time. Eventually, everything will fall into place, and it will all make sense.
So, let’s take that first step and allow God to direct our paths. Trusting God, even when we can’t comprehend the why or how, is all it takes.