Proverbs, Chapter 16

I have spoken a lot lately about God’s plan. What does that mean exactly? We have our own ideas and plans for our lives, but those sometimes vary from what God has for us. Sometimes our plans are small, like an idea for a long weekend away from home. These rarely affect God’s plan, but we can still do small things that reject God’s plan. These small things add up until we find ourselves off the path, wondering where we are.

9 In his heart a man plans his course,
but the LORD determines his steps. – Proverbs 16:9

We are still supposed to plan our lives. That is why we have free will. God wants us to determine our steps. What this proverb means, however, is that God’s plan will ultimately prevail not only for us, but for the entire world. He is thoroughly in control at all times. He does not take a break. Even when our plans fail, as so many of my own have, He is still in control.

18 Pride goes before destruction,
a haughty spirit before a fall. – Proverbs 16:18

This ties in with the previous proverb because we will fall when we think we can affect God’s control and ultimate plan in the world. That is the ultimate example of pride. Pride causes us not to think rationally. It makes us think we are bigger than we are, and thus prevents us from sound, biblical planning. We must always watch our pride, because it is easy to get out of control.