Pencil or Pen?

 By: Joanne Viola

 Given the choice of writing utensils, I would always choose a pencil. In my opinion, they flow better on paper than ink, and smudge less.

I keep pencils until they are no longer able to be sharpened. Most people who know me, know my love of pencils.

With pencils, there is also the added benefit of being able to erase should a mistake be made, or there is a needed correction.

Typing these words causes me to realize how perhaps life should be written in pencil. We never can be certain what life would have in store for us. We are often surprised when our plans do not work out the way anticipated.

And this brings me to share the verse I reflected on recently:

“The mind of man plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.”
(Proverbs 16:9, NASB)

In our minds, we can make our plans and dream about what is to come. We visualize every minute detail and yet, in reality, we are in control on none.

“The issue in these verses is wisdom in the decision-making process. Whether one makes detailed plans or resorts to casting lots, events and circumstances are all in God’s control. As such the wise are cautious but above all put their faith in God and not human plans.”

(from The New American Commentary, Vol. 14, page 155)

We overlook that there is divine providence, One who oversees all of our lives.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts,
Nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways
and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
(Isaiah 55:8-9, NASB)

We can understand some of God’s thoughts and ways, however, all of God’s thoughts and plans and purposes are truly beyond human understanding.

God knows far better than we do what is needed and expedient each day. If we allow ourselves to be dependent upon His Spirit, He will guide and lead us in ways we would not have seen coming.

I’m beginning to appreciate the use of pencils even more with the passing of time. It seems while we may hold the pencil, God holds the eraser. He is the One who edits our days, making the changes as He sees fit and for our good.

“I am a little pencil in God’s hands. He does the thinking. He does the writing. He does everything.” (Mother Teresa)

 

Reflection:
Do you prefer pen or pencil? How do you feel thinking about your future days being written in pencil? How do you feel about trusting God with the days ahead?

 

Image by Jess Bailey from Pixabay