“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Years ago, when my late husband and I were newly married, we found ourselves in the middle of a difficult season. My husband had resigned his position at a local church, and what we thought would be next fell through at the last minute.
We were immediately thrust into uncertainty, struggling to pay our bills. As he worked late nights at a factory to bring in some income, I agonized over our situation, praying fervently for the Lord to show us what was next.
After what felt like an eternity, God opened the door to a new position at a wonderful church. And as we would learn over the next years of marriage, this was just the beginning of a lifetime of discerning what God wants and trusting Him for what is just out of our sight.
No matter how old we are, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. We agonize over whether this step or that decision is right. We wonder if we are following the path God wants for us.
But I think sometimes we make it too complicated or harder than it needs to be. Maybe we need to pursue trust more than clarity.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
So often, I lean on my own understanding. I calculate to get clarity. I try to figure out my way through the fog. But the writer of this proverb, King Solomon, invites us to lean on God Himself.
To lean on God literally means to put all of our weight on the wisdom and love of the Lord. It is to completely rely on and rest in the One who knows all and supplies all. He is the One who can make our paths straight. That’s not a promise that we will always make the right choice. But no matter what, God will be with us, and His purposes will not fail (Proverbs 19:21).
Furthermore, when Proverbs 3:6 says “acknowledge him,” it means more than just recognition. It means a deep and intimate knowledge of who God is and confidence in His character. It's the assurance that He sees all and is working for our good and His glory. When we truly know God, we can’t help but trust Him.
Peace is found in walking by faith, not in figuring out the future. No matter what choices we make, we can trust God will be with us, loving us and leading us. Will you give back the gift of your trust to Him today, no matter what you are facing?
Lord, help me to seek You first in everything. My life is in Your hands, and I want to rely completely on You. Give me a heart that desires to know You and live completely for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
OK, bestie. Maybe She Speaks in Charlotte isn’t happening for you this year. That does not mean you’re out. We’re going live — and you can still be part of every worship moment and truth-filled teaching from wherever you are. Picture it: coffee in hand, notes ready, heart expectant. The same messages. The same encouragement. The same opportunity to be reminded who you are and what God has called you to. The room may be full, but the invitation isn’t closed. Sign up for the FREE She Speaks livestream — we saved a spot just for YOU.
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Psalm 42:1-2, “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” (NIV).
Our lives will be shaped by what we love. Why is desiring God Himself first and foremost even more important than discerning His will? What desires in your life do you need God to purify?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
© 2026 by Ruth Schwenk. All rights reserved.
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