Determine My Steps

Determine My Steps

In his heart, a man plans his course,

But the Lord determines his steps.

Proverbs 16:9

It is Tuesday as I write this -  the start of a new week (yesterday was a holiday and doesn’t count!).   It is a delightful morning here in Central Virginia.  The sky is overcast, the birds are calling out their joyous songs, a robin is preening in the birdbath, and it is one of those mornings when it feels like anything and everything is possible.  With a forecast of only 77 degrees for the high temperature, it is a great spring day.

From my first waking moment, I am planning out just how my day [week, month] is going to go.  I decide that I will do this, that, and the other thing. I have face masks in various stages of construction that need to be finished, the kitchen floor needs mopping, the laundry is ready to roll, groceries need to be purchased, and dozens of tasks await in the front and back yards.   And God is smiling down, knowing that some of these plans are not going to come to fruition.  I may plan my course, but God determines my ultimate destination.

My grandmother used to say, “This is what I am going to do today - Lord willing, and the creek don’t rise.”  If I obstinately run ahead and take a fall, God lovingly picks me up and dusts me off; but He and I both know that it really does work better if I hold on to His hand and He walks by my side.

Lord, help me to know Your love, kindness and grace

amidst the beauty of this morning.

Guide my decisions today.

Give me wisdom for the tasks ahead,

                                                           patience and love for those around me,

and words that will glorify You.

Amen.

*

Give thanks with a grateful heart, give thanks to the Holy One,

Give thanks, because He's given Jesus Christ His Son.

Give thanks with a grateful heart, give thanks to the Holy One,

Give thanks, because He's given Jesus Christ His Son.

And now, let the weak say "I am strong,"

Let the poor say, "I am rich because of what the Lord has done for us."

And now, let the weak say, "I am strong,"

Let the poor say, "I am rich because of what the Lord has done for us."

Give thanks.
The Faith We Sing, No. 2036