Proverbs is an awesome part of the Bible, it’s not as mysterious or hard to figure out as other scriptures can be – and although we shudder at the thought of people describing the Bible as an ‘instruction manual for life’ (vom) – Proverbs probably comes closest to this analogy.

Take todays verse for example: Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he’s the one who will keep you on track. Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG)

It’s simple, short and when lived out – hugely impactful.

It’s got a big challenge attached too, and it begins with the very first word.

Trust.

We know that trust is important, but how often do we fully trust?

There’s a lot of cynicism and skepticism going around these days. We’re all a little cautious, a little jaded. Burnt by bad experiences. And it can be hard giving up control and putting your trust – your faith – in anything. Let alone God, because y’know… we can’t see him.

And not only are we talking about trust in this verse, we’re talking from-the-bottom-of-your-heart trust. Fully relinquishing any and all control. Doing stuff that we don’t want to. Letting go of things we don’t want to.

When the Hebrews were set free from Egypt after hundreds of years of slavery, they marched towards their freedom… straight towards the red sea. Mountain ranges on both sides, and a very angry Pharaoh hot on their trail. It was not looking good. Can you imagine how terrifying that must have been!? And more than one of the gang questioned God. “Really!? You freed us for this!?” But God could see what they could not see. And he saved them in a truly miraculous, spectacular fashion. (Check out the full story in Exodus 14:5-31, it’s a good un’)

When we’re faced with mountains and oceans and hard situations we only see that moment. But God can see the whole story. This proverb is a reminder to listen out for and trust God’s voice.

And a great way for us to do that is to read the Bible. When we choose to spend time reading God’s word with a genuine desire to hear him, instead of doing it out of obligation, that’s when we can start to see real transformation in our lives.

But don’t take our word for it, try it out for yourself.