Commit Your Way to the Lord

Proverbs 16:3 is one of the worst translated verses in the Bible.  The New International Version says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”  Does this seem like a bad reading to you?  Well, it is.  Because of this mistranslation people claim this verse for prosperity regarding their church building project or business venture.  

Instead of a promise of the Almighty’s blessing on our plans, this passage actually tells us that when we totally trust Him, then our thoughts and our ways will change.  The Hebrew word for “commit” literally means “roll” like how a wave rolls in the sea.  The Hebrew word for “whatever” literally means “works.”

Correctly this proverb should tell us to “roll your works upon the Lord and your thoughts will be established.”  This teaches us that when we cease from our labors of “trying” and rest in Jesus then His heavenly thoughts will fill our mind.  This is the essence of faith.  Roll or cast your your cares upon Him.  Rest in Him today.  Quit trying and trust Him. Dwell in His presence.  He will then help you think His thoughts.

Proverbs 16:3, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”  Or better yet, “roll your works upon the Lord and your thoughts will be established.”