November 8, 2026 -- Proverbs 16:9 -- Directed in His pathway

People loved by the Father, in the Spirit's power: Sh'ma ~ hear and obey Jesus!

The heart of a man plans his way,
but the LORD establishes his steps.
Proverbs 16:9 ESV
 
The heart is the place where the spirit of the man and the mind of a man work together. A pagan’s heart will be influenced by the world, the Devil, and his own sinful inclination. The Christian man will experience all these influences as well, but he fights them in the power of the Holy Spirit. Despite all the pressures of life, the heart of a godly man is empowered by the Holy Spirit to allow his spirit and his mind to plan the way of righteousness.
 
The blessing and mercy of God is revealed here. We can’t see what comes next in our lives. We make our plans knowing a single phone call turns everything upside down. We can prepare all we want, but the circumstances of our lives are out of our control. The text before us today assures us that the LORD will bring us safely to the place He intends for us. He is guiding. He is protecting. Nothing will push us off the course our Father prepared for us.
 
I think of Jesus’ beautiful words: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of my Father’s hand (John 10:27-29). When the LORD directs the steps of His people, no matter what happens in life, their heavenly Father will bring them to Himself.
 
Those looking in on our circumstances might see us buffeted and struggling. But inside ourselves we have confidence. The Spirit, Whom the Father has given us, continually reassures us by the word, by sermons, through Christian community, and deep-rooted assurance within our heart that we are safe in Jesus, our Shepherd’s care. We follow Him throughout our lives. Then, at the end of our earthly journey, led by Jesus, confidently enter eternity.
 
Father in heaven thank You for the new life You have given me in Christ. As You lead me by Your Holy Spirit deepen my assurance that nothing will ever snatch me out of Your hand. Indeed, as the word promises, You will direct my steps until that day when Jesus presents me blameless in Your presence. What glorious hope and confidence You give to Your people. Blessed be Your Name, now and forevermore. Amen.
 
https://youtu.be/SExcnAChIco?si=s9lTtGALYIdaV3nU
 
 

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