1. This morning we studied the information that Solomon wrote about wisdom in Proverbs 4:7 -- "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom." 2. We also studied the information that James wrote about wisdom (3:13-18). 3. This evening we are basing our lesson on Solomon's instructions that relate to trusting in the Lord in Proverbs 3:5-6. 4. We will also examine the instructions found in James 4:13-17. Discussion: I. IN PROVERBS 3:5-6 SOLOMON WROTE ABOUT TRUSTING IN THE LORD
A. Vs.5 begins with the admonition "Trust in the Lord." 1. This to be done "with all the heart." 2. To trust in the Lord we must: a. avoid leaning unto our own understanding (vs.5b; see vs.7-8) b. acknowledge Him in all our ways (vs.6a). 3. The end result of trusting in the Lord is that He will direct our paths (vs.6b). 4. With Solomon's words in Proverbs 3:5-6 in mind, let us turn our attention to the information that . . . II. JAMES WROTE ABOUT TRUSTING IN THE LORD IN JAMES 4:13-17
A. In vs.13 we read about people who lean unto their own understanding. 1. James confronted a situation in which financial plans are made for the future. a. James wrote about people who decide on their own: 1) when they will do what they want to do 2) where they will go 3) how long they will stay there 4) what they will do 5) what the outcome of their efforts will be. b. In this statement,: 1) God is not mentioned 2) God's will is not considered 3) God is not recognized as the source of all good blessings (1:17) 4) no plans for serving the Lord are included. 2. Depending upon self to the point that God's will is overlooked is a serious problem, and it must be avoided (Jeremiah 10:23). 3. Jesus told a parable about a man with this problem (Luke 12:16-21). 4. Making plans for the future is not wrong, but God and His will must be included in our plans. B. (vs.14, 16) James showed why Christians must not lean unto their own understanding. 1. (vs.14) We must not lean unto our own understanding because no one knows what will happen tomorrow. a. Life is like a vapor -- it appears for a short time and vanishes. b. Life is so uncertain that we cannot afford to overlook God and His will. 2. (vs.16) We must not lean unto our own understanding because it is evil. a. Those who lean unto their own understanding rejoice in their "boastings" [things they accomplish themselves]. b. All such rejoicing is evil, and we must not be guilty of it. c. Instead of leaning unto our own understanding, . . . C. (vs.15) Christians are to trust in the Lord with all the heart. 1. Christians are to acknowledge the Lord's will and trust in His providence. 2. Paul's example is worthy of imitation (Acts 18:20-21). 3. Vs.17 shows that knowing to do good, and not doing it, is sin. 4. From the context, knowing that we should trust in the Lord's will and failing to do so is sin. Conclusion:
1. The information Solomon and James wrote about trusting in the Lord agrees. 2. Do you follow the instructions they wrote?
