Confident Living in a Fragile World

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring.” Proverbs 27:1 NLT

This familiar proverb of Solomon’s would seem to be contrary to confident living. But when we look at this simple admonition, there is as much to it as what is infers as what it says.

First it has a focus on a self-reliant confidence that ignores that life is fragile. This doesn’t negate plans and dreams and mapping out a “life plan” for those who are more purposeful and strategic in their view of life.

It is good, however, to hold to life and what is “today” with an open hand and a cautious approach. What we have may be short-lived. what we cherish may soon be gone. Without a God-centered existence that can create more discomfort, and discouragement.

But it calls us to understand where we place our confidence and hope and how we prioritize our life. The workaholic may push to accomplish some career and financial goals and “then” spend time with his family. Only he learns by that time kids are raised and life has changed. The one who says, “I will take care of my relationship with God, when I have time” finds that time never comes, or is cut short.

This verse catches my attention, not only because of its personal application to my life, but because of how the concept is repeated in the New Testament.

The Apostle James addresses the concepts in these words,  Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring…” (James 4:13,14 ESV) He goes on an talks about how life is like a “vapor” or a “mist.” It is quickly gone.

He then gives this advice, Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil.” (James 4:15,16 ESV) 

In the verses that precede James’ admonition he deals with strife and conflict among believers. It is apparent that there was self-centered living. It was reflected in their relationships with others and their view of life. It is just a few verses before James talks about pride-filled plans that he says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord and He will exalt you.” (James 4:10)

If we don’t humble ourselves before the Lord, we might find the Lord or life humbling ourselves before the eyes of the world. We can recognize that life is fragile, but we can live life confidently when our focus is on the Lord and trusting Him to guide and direct our lives.

In closing, this verse from Proverbs 27:1 brings another one into context, “Commit your actions to the LORD, and your plans will succeed.” (Proverbs 16:3 NLT)

Prayer for today…. Lord thank you that You help us to understand life and give us the way to navigate it and make the most of these days that You give us on this earth. Thank You that when we commit our ways to You, You allow all of our life to have greater purpose and significance.Â