Reading: Proverbs 3:1-6

My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart.
If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying.
Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder.
Write them deep within your heart.
Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.

Reflection

This world begs us to rely on ourselves, to make something of ourselves, and to celebrate our own successes. But our faith calls us to another way, to place our trust in God alone, knowing that all we are and all we have is not of our own doing, but a gift from our Creator. This verse from Proverbs has been my favorite verse for a very long time. It reminds me who I am and what I am not. Each time I take credit for my knowledge, actions, or success, I am reminded in these words that it is not about me, but the one who created me. All that I am is meant to give glory to God and point inwardly toward myself. These are the things that we have been taught in our faith, and how we are called to live a faithful life. When I place my trust in the Lord and let go of my own ways, I end up on the path of life that God wants me on. The greatest blessing though is that even when I rely on myself and end up heading in the wrong direction, our God is forgiving and by his grace I am led back onto the right path. The path lined with faith, kindness, love, and hope.

–Karla Leiby

Prayer

Glorious Creator, enlighten the path you wish for us to take. Open our hearts and minds to your presence and grant us wisdom to seek your will in all things. Lord we place our complete trust in you.
Amen.