To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.
All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
The Lord works out everything to its proper end— even the wicked for a day of disaster.
The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

“You are unfair”, “I deserve more”, “I shouldn’t have to do that job”. These are all the statements of people who feel entitled. God does not reward those who demand their rights all the time. Instead he rewards us for using discretion and wisdom that comes from him.

How many times have I spoken first and regretted it later? What could have happened if I had sought out God’s words first?

Motives can be a tricky thing to iron out. The “why” behind the action has left me pretty confused at times. When we allow God into our hearts, his Spirit will convict us of impure motives. From God’s own perspective, motives are important, as they reveal the heart behind the action.

When we dedicate everything to God — our money, property, relationships, interests, dreams, goals, and plans — he works things out for us in the end. And the evil get their due too.

Finally, there is a call to be humble here. Realize we are nothing compared to God. And comparing ourselves to others, when God designed us each with different abilities and skills, is pointless and wrong. We are to delight in God’s ways and focus on them.

Lord, help me to keep these proverbs in mind as I live. I need to commit all to you and you will make me shine!