A person may plan his own journey, but the Lord directs his steps. (Proverbs 16:9 GW)
Last Friday night at the homeschool graduation, I heard one of the best graduation speeches I’ve ever heard – one that will likely be remembered, at least in part.
The Bible verse the class had chosen was “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (Proverbs 16:9 NIV). The speaker had arranged to give each graduate a pair of white sneakers and take notes by writing on those sneakers. I thought this was a novel way to increase the likelihood of them remembering what he said. He focused on the word PLANS from this verse, giving them – and us – quality, real-life advice. While they now each have decorated sneakers, I will share my notes with you. I invite you to ask the Holy Spirit how you are doing in each of these areas and how you can grow in your life.
P – Pray for wisdom. If any of you lacks wisdom [to guide him through a decision or circumstance], he is to ask of [our benevolent] God, who gives to everyone generously and without rebuke or blame, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5 AMP)
L – Lose your life. For whoever wishes to save his life [in this world] will [eventually] lose it [through death], but whoever loses his life [in this world] for My sake, he is the one who will save it [from the consequences of sin and separation from God]. (Luke 9:24 AMP)
A – Abide in Jesus. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. (John 15:4 ESV)
N – Navigate your life based on God’s Word. The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple….Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me. (Psalm 119:130, 133 NIV)
S – Be Spirit-led. I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. (Galatians 5:16 NIV)
God,
Thank you for your ancient wisdom repackaged in new ways for our day. Thank you for decorated sneakers that can remind these graduates – and us – of the truth of your Word, and the grace and love of your heart. Help us to be people that pray for wisdom, lose our life in this world so we gain life in the next, abide in you, navigate our lives based on your Word, and be led by the Holy Spirit. Help us to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances because we know that you will not abandon those who seek you for their lives. We pray your blessings and favor will be poured out on all who call you Lord and Savior, and we ask this in Jesus’s name. AMEN.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)
h/t David Hulings