30 Days in ProverbsNäide

Proverbs 21 opens with such a comforting reminder: the king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord. In other words, God holds authority over the people who hold authority over us. That truth has steadied me more times than I can count—especially in moments where I’ve felt powerless to change someone’s mind or heart.

Have you ever been there? Maybe you’ve prayed for a boss to see your perspective on a crucial decision, or for a loved one to turn from a destructive path. Maybe you’ve longed for someone to simply get it—to see the truth the way you do. And yet… nothing changes. That’s when Proverbs 21:1 comes in like a balm. It reminds us that God has the power to turn hearts, softening the stubborn and strengthening the weary. He can bend streams of thought and desire to accomplish His will.

But, here’s the piece that stings a little: sometimes the heart God wants to change is mine. I’ve caught myself praying for everyone else to shift while assuming I already had it right. But humility means coming before God with an open posture, asking not only for others to be molded by His hand, but for my own heart to bend too.

That’s why verse 2 hits so hard: “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart” (ESV). We’re all prone to self-justification. We think we’re right. We assume our motives are pure. But God sees beneath the surface—He sees what no one else does. Which is why it’s so important to regularly invite Him to examine us, not just when we’re in crisis. Think of it like preventative care. You don’t want to wait for a heart attack to check in with your doctor, right? The same goes for your soul. Let God search and tend to your heart often, so you don’t end up in need of spiritual life support.

Throughout Proverbs 21, we find woven themes of righteousness, justice, and wisdom. Living well in God’s world means walking in integrity, practicing compassion, and honoring Him above all else. So, as you read, ask yourself: Where do I need to trust God more? Who do I need to release into His hands? And how can I keep my own heart soft and surrendered before Him?