Scripture: Judges 21:25
“In those days there was no king in Israel. Everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”
It is easy to read these words and wonder how God’s people could have wandered so far from Him. Yet, if we’re honest, we recognize the same struggle in our own hearts. We want to do what seems best to us, pursue what makes us happy, and ask God to bless the decisions we’ve already made. Even as followers of Christ, we can be more influenced by our own desires than by God’s Word.
How do we guard against living this way?
We begin by letting God’s Word, rather than our own wisdom, direct our steps (Psalm 119:105). We ask Him to search our hearts and expose the motives we might otherwise overlook (Psalm 139:23–24). We seek His wisdom in prayer. We welcome and invite the counsel of trusted advisers, and we learn to say with Jesus, “Not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42).
But our greatest need is deeper than better decisions. Our hearts are naturally inclined toward self-centeredness. We need more than good advice; we need a Savior who can forgive our rebellion and transform our hearts.
How thankful we can be that God has given us Jesus Christ, our true and gracious King! Jesus always delighted in His Father’s will, even when obedience led Him to the cross. Through His death and resurrection, He delivers us from the guilt and power of sin and brings us into a relationship with God. By His Spirit, He teaches us to trust His wisdom, submit to His Word, and find joy in walking in His ways.
Dear friend, you don’t have to trust your own wisdom or follow every desire of your heart. You can trust the One who knows you completely, loves you perfectly, and leads you faithfully. His ways are good, His Word is true, and His grace is sufficient for every step of the journey.
Reflection: Where are you tempted to do what seems right to you rather than what God has revealed in His Word?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have trusted my own wisdom instead of Yours. Search my heart, renew my mind through Your Word, and help me follow Jesus faithfully. Thank You that, through His grace, I am forgiven and no longer have to live under the rule of my own desires. Teach me to trust Your goodness and delight in Your ways. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
