Proverbs 16:3

Commit your acts to Yahweh, and your plans will be established.

As important as human planning is, the ultimate outcome depends on Yahweh. All planning should thus be done with the idea that God can and may indeed overturn it. We don’t simply ask God to honor all of our plans, but rather submit all of our actions to Him, getting to the point that even if something doesn’t “work out”, we are able to see a deeper plan at work, and rest in it. We have peace because of our trust in Yahweh.

Proverbs 16:24

Pleasant words are liquid honey, sweet to the taste and healing to the bones.

Our words hurt or heal. The old saying “Sticks and stone…” would have sounded like complete BS to the sages. Our words penetrate to the core of people (“the bones”), and affect them. Other Proverbs indicate that healing words are those spoken at the right time. The more tuned in we are, the more we will be aware of what needs to be spoken when, and then act upon that knowledge.

It never ceases to amaze me how powerful encouraging words are. I received some affirming words yesterday that totally lifted my spirits and countenance for the rest of the day.

Don’t hold back an encouraging word. It’s more powerful than you probably realize. If someone is on your mind, tell them. If you have a word, share it. Make it a point to encourage someone everyday.

John 10:10

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.

Jesus came to awaken us from the sleepwalking, pathetic, shallow excuse for a life that the world offers us.

If you want a fulfilling, adventurous, unpredictable life of depth, then follow Jesus. It is safely dangerous and will not disappoint anyone who takes it seriously. It’s free, as it’s already been paid for, but it will cost you.

Christianity has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and not tried.

-G.K. Chesterton