In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. – Proverbs 3:6

King Solomon clearly explained that a person who is wise in his own eyes will not do well: “Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool” (Proverbs 28:26). Today’s verse is an encouragement to live in the light of the fear – or worship – of the Lord. The reliance on God in everything does not come naturally to the human mind and heart. Yet, if you know Him, recognize His rights and authority in your life, and let Him lead you, you can experience an intimate relationship with Him that impacts every area of your life.

Acknowledging God in all your ways means you have made an exhaustive and exclusive commitment to yielding your life to the Creator God who knows you best. The verse ahead of today’s directs you to fully trust God, which makes all the difference. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). It is God who leads you to continually progress along the path that He has ordained and purposed. An old Portuguese proverb states, “God writes straight with crooked lines.” The Lord will direct your way, not by the easiest path, but by the one that fulfills His plan.

There are those in government who fail to acknowledge that God has the best plans for them and for this nation. Whenever you think of them, remember to pray, as the Lord instructed, for hearts to be changed. Intercede for those in authority to commit their lives to the only One who can make straight the path. Then lean on the Lord for peace, guidance, strength, and direction as you seek to travel where He wills.