Psalm 146:3 Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortal men, who cannot save.

I like the Japanese a bit better than the English here. It says, “Don’t rely on princes, on the children of men who have no salvation.” There are people who are trustworthy as far as their intentions go, but no human being can guarantee outcomes. We interact with all sorts of people all the time, and a certain level of trust is essential for society to function at all. However, there needs to be a fundamental reliance on God, who cannot fail. This verse can be turned around to tell others not to rely on us, because we too are mortal and fallible and will almost certainly let them down at some point. We aren’t to use that as an excuse to be sloppy in our ethics or morality, but rather cling all the more firmly to God, who alone is greater than all our failures and weaknesses. It is only when we abide in Christ that we are able to be and do all that we should. God can and will provide everything necessary to live as His child, His agent, but that becomes fully operative only when we rely fully on Him alone, not on anyone else, including ourselves.

I find I am reminded of my shortcomings with depressing regularity, but I need to rejoice to be reminded of the truth in this verse. I cannot rely on myself, much less on anyone else, but God is totally reliable. I have a strong perfectionist streak, which can make me hard to get along with at times. It also makes me get disgusted with myself, for failing to do things perfectly. I’ve got to be at peace with the reality that God alone is perfect, and using imperfect vessels is His specialty. My date book is blank for today, but there are various things that are pressing on me with considerable urgency. I can’t get them all done properly in my own strength and wisdom, but He can do it through me. As He told me years ago, I need to rest, relax, and rejoice in Him, allowing His Spirit to cleanse and carry and use me according to His perfect plan, on His schedule and for His glory.

Father, thank You for this reminder. Insomnia over such things is so stupid! I ask Your guidance and anointing as I prepare the sermon notes for Sunday, as we prepare the year end/new year greeting cards (that should have been sent out two to three weeks ago), and as I draw up the formal contract for the loan I’ve already received from a friend. I am more than capable of messing up any or all of those on my own, but none is difficult for You. May I not rely on myself but on You, gratefully receiving the help of those You send my way, so that indeed Your will may be done on Your schedule for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!