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There are many times in life when we might question the wisdom of the Lord. When events do not turn the way we expected or when circumstances upset us, there is the temptation to ask why God has allowed this or that to happen. The words from Proverbs remind us that our human understanding is limited and imperfect and that what God wants to develop in us is a strong sense of trust in his divine wisdom and gracious will for us:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5

This is particularly important in our day and age, when there have been so many advances in areas like information technology and medicine, to name a few. People begin to think that human wisdom and human ingenuity will solve every problem known to humankind. And while we are thankful for the wonderful advancements that have been made in so many areas, there is also the caution not to forget the one who is the ultimate source of everything that exists in this world and whose will and ways are far superior to that of mere human beings.

I think about this a lot when pondering the great questions of the day. When we ask questions about poverty, hunger, the environment, social justice, war and peace, health care or whatever else comes to mind, I am reminded of these words from this great book of wisdom in the Old Testament. If we truly trust that God has an interest in our well-being and that binding ourselves to Him spiritually can make a difference in our understanding, then I think we start to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

This does not mean that we should fail to use all our powers of will or intellect to solve problems or meet challenges. If fact, God has given us specific gifts that He expects us to use as His disciples, gifts that require of diligence and devotion and commitment. But we are still totally dependent upon the gracious will of God, and Scripture reminds us to trust Him in all that we do. That spirit of trust can give us confidence that God will bless our labors and carry out His plans through our humble offerings to Him.

And remember to trust in the Lord with all your heart. God wants us to trust Him completely, not just when it’s convenient or comfortable. And when we do this, our minds and spirits will be enlightened by His promise to lead us into all truth. Then we will experience the hope, the joy and the knowledge that is not merely of the head but also—and most importantly—of the heart.

Rev. Ron Nickel is Vacancy Pastor at Saint John’s Lutheran Church. You can reach him in the church office, by email at nickel@StJohnsFC.org or at 970-482-5316.