Proverbs 16:3 (NIV)

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV) says:

“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”

Here’s what it really teaches:

1. Commitment Means Surrender

The Hebrew word for “commit” literally means to roll over or entrust. It’s not just asking God to bless our plans but placing our whole work, decisions, and motives into His hands. It is an act of surrender — saying, “Lord, not my way, but Yours.”

2. God Shapes and Establishes

When we entrust our plans to Him, it doesn’t mean everything will go exactly as we want. Instead, God shapes and aligns our desires, goals, and steps according to His will. He brings stability, clarity, and direction where there might otherwise be uncertainty or chaos.

3. Faith Over Self-Reliance

This verse contrasts human self-reliance with trust in God. It reminds us that our best planning is fragile without God’s guidance. By committing our ways to Him, we acknowledge His wisdom and sovereignty over our limited understanding.

4. Partnership, Not Passivity

It doesn’t mean we sit back and do nothing. We still plan, work, and make decisions, but with a heart surrendered to God. Our role is to trust and obey, and God’s role is to direct and establish.

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✅ In summary: Proverbs 16:3 teaches us to entrust every aspect of our work and life to God, trusting that He will align our plans with His perfect will and give them lasting success according to His purposes.