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We have a post at the corner of our pasture fence line. The post is made from a large log and at a distance it looks like a great horned owl. I helped install this post last summer when we redid our south fence line. I have touched that corner post with my own hands, yet every morning, when I go out to feed the animals I see an owl perched on top of that post.
We can be deceived by our own eyes and heart.
21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes
Isaiah 5:21 NIV
and clever in their own sight.
I know it’s not an owl, yet every morning I’m deceived.
The heart is deceitful above all things
Jeremiah 17:9 NIV
and beyond cure.
Who can understand it?
We can be deceived by our own eyes and our hearts! We must recognize our fallen condition for what it is. Have you ever made much out of nothing because you allowed your mind to run unchecked?
Oh goodness, yes, yes, I have.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
Proverbs 3:5 NIV
and lean not on your own understanding;
When I lean on my understanding I make a mess of things, I allow “all the feels” to run the show. I can get myself all worked up, creating stories in my mind and the stories I have told myself take on a life of their own. Before I know it I have drifted away from the safe harbor of God into uncharted waters of my creation.
As for God, his way is perfect:
Psalms 18:30 NIV
The Lord’s word is flawless;
he shields all who take refuge in him.
If I can be fooled by a log, I am smart enough to recognize I have no business leaning on my understanding! I need the shield of God, I need to take refuge in Him, for He is steadfast, righteous, and eternal.
Jesus, I make a mess of things on my own I need you every second of every day. Thank you for your patience, your love, and your guidance. Your word in scripture is eternal, your guidance is perfect, and your love surpasses all understanding. I cannot help by fall to my knees and sing your praises. You are worthy. My King, My Savior, my brother and friend, all of me I give freely to worship you. -Amen