Smart Steps

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5&6 NAS

When I was at Penn State, there were men from the Gideon’s Society passing out free Bibles on campus. I took one, small and green, and began to read. To my knowledge, it is the first time I ever studied the Word of God for myself.

I had attended church every single Sunday my entire life, only listening to words being read by others. As I paged through this little book of the New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs, my gaze was drawn to the above passage: Proverbs 3:5,6. My heart was pierced with these words — now my life verse.

Even though I was immature in my faith, I wanted so badly for my life to be directed by God, so that it would turn out well; to please Him with no wasted years of wandering and wondering. I was young, but I wanted my life to count, to matter – for something, for Someone.

I wanted to trust the Lord. I wanted Him to direct my paths. The secret seemed to be in the middle portion: to “NOT LEAN upon my own understanding.” Ah. There’s the rub.

The desire to figure every little thing out is human, but this verse was telling me that there was another way to live; a life, dedicated to God, acknowledging Him. A life where He is the Shepherd of my Soul, leading me, keeping me on the straight path.

That was the first time I took smart steps in the direction of the Lord; keeping my ear inclined to hear that still, small voice and my eyes looking ahead for His hand directing me. I was ready to make new steps. Smart steps.

I still am. Lead me onward, Lord. I am trusting You.

~ Debbie Ecker