“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
Most Christian women I coach have no trouble trusting that God loves them. They’ll say confidently, “I trust God.” But if we’re honest, the challenge comes in the second part of that verse – not leaning on our own understanding.
That’s where we struggle. We pray and plan. But too often, we also press ahead, leaning on logic, past experiences, or the loudest voices around us rather than partnering with the One who sees the end from the beginning.
And here’s the truth: trusting God means not leaning on our own understanding. When we go it alone, even with good intentions, we’ve stepped away from true trust. God doesn’t want to be a silent observer in your journey. He wants to be an active partner – co-laboring with you to help you live a life aligned with your purpose, calling, and current assignment.
So how do you stop walking alone and begin partnering with God for a purpose-aligned life? Here are three keys to help you do just that:
1. Prioritize His Presence Over Productivity
We live in a world that applauds hustle, but heaven moves through obedience. Before you chase the next thing, pause and seek God’s presence.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” – Matthew 6:33 (CSB)
How to do this:
- Start each day with prayer, not planning.
- Use a journal to write out what you sense God is leading you to focus on – spiritually and practically.
- Resist the urge to fill every hour. Make space to listen.
When you prioritize God’s presence, He sharpens your discernment, so you can tell the difference between a good opportunity and a God assignment.
2. Align Your Plans with His Purpose
Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” We often make plans and then ask God to bless them. But true partnership means inviting Him in at the planning stage.
How to do this:
- Before making decisions, ask: Does this align with my God-given purpose and calling?
- Revisit your goals and ask, Is this leading me closer to my assignment or pulling me away?
- Submit each plan through prayer. Literally pray over your calendar, projects, and goals.
When your plans are birthed out of purpose, your path becomes clearer – and God brings the divine connections and clarity you need.
3. Practice Daily Surrender
Purpose-alignment isn’t a one-time decision. It’s a daily posture of surrender. It’s saying, “Lord, not my will, but Yours.” It’s choosing to stay in step with the Holy Spirit, even when it doesn’t make sense to others, or even to you.
“The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way.” – Psalm 37:23 (ESV)
How to do this:
- Create a habit of surrender through simple daily declarations like, “God, I trust You more than I trust me.”
- Let go of needing to know it all. You’re walking by faith, not formula.
- Celebrate progress, not perfection. God honors your obedience more than your outcomes.
Walking This Out
Partnering with God is the only way to live a purpose-aligned life. You weren’t meant to carry the weight of your calling alone. When you prioritize His presence, align your plans with His purpose, and surrender daily, you’ll find clarity, peace, and direction.
So, here’s your challenge: Ask yourself today, Am I truly partnering with God – or just asking Him to co-sign my plans?
Choose trust. Release the need to lean on your understanding. And step forward with confidence – knowing that when you walk with Him, He will make your path straight.
You were never meant to do this alone. It’s time to walk it out, with God by your side.
