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- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Pro 16:1, Pro 16:9; Psa 33:10-11). The failure of man's devices is implied.
John Gill Bible Commentary
There are many devices in a man's heart,.... Some about civil things; to get wealth and riches: to obtain honour and glory among men; to attain to a long life, and to perpetuate their memories after death: some about sinful things; to gratify their carnal lusts and sensual appetites; and to do mischief to others, particularly the people of God, and the cause and interest of Christ: some about religious things; coming new doctrines, devising new ordinances and modes of worship; contriving other methods of salvation than by Christ; as by the light of nature; by the law of Moses; by mere morality, civility, and external justice between man and man; by keeping to the religion they were born and brought up in; and by a mere outward profession of religion, and submission to ordinances, and performance of duties, and a multitude more of the like kind; nevertheless, the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand; and can never be frustrated by the devices of man's heart, though there are many, and that but one; see Psa 33:10. This may be applied to the Gospel, and the scheme of salvation in it, called the whole counsel of God, Act 20:27; it being the fruit of infinite wisdom, and the effect of a divine council between the eternal Three, and full of the best advice and instructions to the sons of men; and which has stood, and shall stand, notwithstanding the persecutions of wicked men, the craft of false teachers, and the ridicule of a profane world; it will continue till all the elect are gathered in, even, to the end of the world; and so will the ordinances of it, which are also called the counsel of God, Luk 7:30; and which will continue till the second coming of Christ. Moreover, the purposes of God, his counsels of old, or his eternal decrees, may be here meant; which are wisely formed in his own breast, and are not frustrable; and according to which counsel of his will all things are done in nature, providence, and grace; all things in this world are ordered as he pleases, and all things are done as he has ordered them; all his purposes are or will be fulfilled; his designs will be accomplished in the world and in his church, in spite of all the schemes, contrivances, and opposition of men and devils.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here we have, 1. Men projecting. They keep their designs to themselves, but they cannot hide them from God; he knows the many devices that are in men's hearts, - devices against his counsels (as those, Psa 2:1-3; Mic 4:11), - devices without his counsel (no regard had to his providence, as those Jam 4:13, this and the other they will do, and not take God along with them), - devices unlike God's counsels; men are wavering in their devices, and often absurd and unjust, but God's counsels are wise and holy, steady and uniform. 2. God overruling. Various men have various designs, according as their inclination or interest leads them, but the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand, whatever becomes of the devices of men. His counsel often breaks men's measures and baffles their devices; but their devices cannot in the least alter his counsel, not disturb the proceedings of it, nor put him upon new counsels, Isa 14:24; Isa 46:11. What a check does this give to politic designing men, who think they can outwit all mankind, that there is a God in heaven that laughs at them! Psa 2:4. What comfort does this speak to all God's people, that all God's purposes, which we are sure are right and good, shall be accomplished in due time!
The Man of Integrity
20Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days. 21Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
"His Plan for Me"
By Leonard Ravenhill9.7K00:50PSA 37:5PRO 19:21ISA 64:8JER 29:11ROM 12:2This sermon reflects on the poem 'His Plan for Me' and delves into the concept of surrendering to God's will. It explores the idea of standing before Christ at the judgment seat and realizing the missed opportunities and blessings due to not yielding to God's plan. The sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering our will and allowing God to mold us according to His divine purpose, even if it means letting go of our own desires and plans.
K-490 False Prophets of the Last Days
By Art Katz2.1K55:05False Prophets1KI 18:26PSA 119:105PRO 19:21MAT 7:24JHN 4:232TI 4:3JAS 1:22In this sermon transcript, the speaker shares his personal experience of witnessing a demonstration of power without the presence of the living God. He describes a situation where a preacher performed miracles and people were amazed, but the speaker felt an unbearable anguish because he sensed something was wrong. He also mentions another incident where a well-known evangelist turned out to be a notorious homosexual, causing him great pain and questioning the discernment of the church. The speaker emphasizes the importance of discernment and urges listeners to question the history and credibility of preachers before accepting their messages.
The Eternal Purpose of God - Part 2
By Stephen Kaung1.8K08:47PSA 139:16PRO 16:4PRO 19:21ECC 3:1ISA 46:10JER 29:11ROM 8:28EPH 1:11COL 1:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God's purpose to find meaning in life. It shares a powerful story of a woman who discovered the true meaning of life through understanding God's eternal purpose. The message highlights that without being connected to God's purpose, life can feel empty and meaningless, but once aligned with His plan, life gains profound significance and fulfillment.
The Eternal Purpose of God - Part 7
By Stephen Kaung1.7K06:46PSA 103:7PRO 19:21JHN 5:17ROM 11:33EPH 1:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing God's ways, counsel, and work in order to align ourselves with His righteous and merciful nature. It highlights how Moses understood God's righteousness and mercy, allowing him to intercede for the children of Israel. Understanding God's purpose alone is not enough; we must also know His ways and work in accordance with His will.
Ten Shekels and a Shirt - Part 3
By Paris Reidhead1.4K09:52PSA 1:1PRO 19:21MAT 16:26ROM 12:21CO 1:18GAL 1:10PHP 2:3COL 3:23JAS 4:41JN 2:15This sermon delves into the contrast between liberalism, fundamentalism, and humanism in Christianity, highlighting the shift towards a focus on human happiness rather than true reverence for life and God. It emphasizes the danger of reducing salvation to mere intellectual assent and the betrayal of selling out God for personal gain. The speaker challenges the prevalent humanistic philosophy that distorts the true essence of Christianity and calls for a return to a genuine faith centered on God's glory and not just human happiness.
Seven Reasons Why You Should Go - Part 4
By George Verwer1.1K05:14PSA 32:8PRO 3:5PRO 16:9PRO 19:21ISA 6:8MAT 4:19ACT 16:6EPH 2:10JAS 4:13This sermon emphasizes the joy and fulfillment found in missionary work, debunking the idea of it being a form of purgatory for past mistakes. It encourages listeners to embrace the experiences, both challenging and rewarding, that come with serving God. The message highlights the importance of taking steps of faith and being open to God's guidance in pursuing missions, knowing that God can easily redirect our paths for His purposes.
Proverbs 19- Lord, Why Is This Happening?
By Shane Idleman1.0K54:33PSA 139:23PRO 19:21ISA 55:9MAT 16:24ROM 8:28JAS 1:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, acknowledging the struggles and unknown hindrances that hold us back. It highlights the need for God to reveal and search our hearts for full surrender, compassion, and love. The speaker delves into the concept of God's sovereignty, explaining how our plans are subject to His purposes prevailing. The sermon also touches on the significance of repentance, obedience, and trust in God's control, even in the midst of confusion and unforeseen blessings.
Nehemiah 6 - Part 7
By Joshua Daniel98006:16PSA 25:4PSA 127:1PRO 19:21ISA 9:6ISA 44:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking the stamp and work of God in our lives, rather than relying on human efforts or worldly counsel. It calls for surrendering to the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit and allowing the seal of the resurrected Savior to be upon us. The speaker acknowledges the need for divine guidance, the counsel of the Almighty, and the conquering power of God to overcome worldly temptations and build God's kingdom instead of our own.
Prayer Summit - Part 9 by Gerhard Dutoit
By Gerhard Du Toit66433:37PRO 19:21JHN 14:16ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 6:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of developing intimacy with God through prayer and seeking the will of God for our lives. It highlights the personal encounter with the Holy Spirit and the significance of being in God's plan. The speaker shares a powerful testimony of answered prayer, illustrating God's faithfulness and the impact of prayer in believers' lives.
Be Content: God Designed You With These Spiritual Gifts
By Tim Conway57202:29PRO 19:21ROM 12:61CO 12:18PHP 4:11COL 3:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of contentment in the unique gifts that God has given to each individual within the church. It highlights the need for men to be satisfied with the specific roles and abilities God has bestowed upon them, whether it be in speaking, serving, showing mercy, having compassion, or giving. The message stresses that God's sovereignty is at work in distributing these gifts, and individuals should find fulfillment and success by operating within the design God has ordained for them.
God's Immutability I
By Richard Owen Roberts44026:14Character Of GodPRO 19:21ISA 14:24ISA 46:9DAN 6:25MAL 3:6HEB 7:25HEB 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the inevitability of decay and change in the world around us. He uses examples like the changing seasons and the decay of possessions to illustrate this point. The preacher then focuses on a passage from Malachi 3, where God declares that He does not change. He highlights the significance of this statement, emphasizing that while we can never fully comprehend God, His nature remains constant throughout eternity. The preacher concludes by affirming that God is holy and benevolent, and will always be so.
Blessed for a Purpose
By E.A. Adeboye4EXO 12:35EST 4:14PRO 19:21MAL 3:102CO 9:8EPH 2:10E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's purpose in the blessings He bestows upon His children, highlighting that these blessings are not just for personal benefit but to fulfill a greater divine plan. Through the examples of Esther and the Israelites, he illustrates how God strategically places His children in positions of influence and prosperity to carry out His will and bring about salvation and restoration. Adeboye urges believers to seek God's guidance in understanding the purpose behind their blessings and to actively use their resources, skills, and positions to serve God and others, ensuring that they do not miss out on fulfilling their divine assignments.
In the Beginning, God…
By E.A. Adeboye1GEN 1:1PRO 3:6PRO 19:21E.A. Adeboye preaches on the importance of putting God first in every aspect of our lives, drawing from Genesis 1:1-5 to illustrate how God brings order to chaos. He emphasizes the need to be transparent before God, exposing our faults and weaknesses to Him, and trusting His plan even when we don't understand it. By seeking God's counsel and allowing Him to direct our paths, we can experience His transformative power and see obstacles disappear in His presence.
Matthew 2:12-15. the Heavenly Warnings.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0JOB 5:12PSA 34:7PSA 91:5PRO 19:21ISA 54:171PE 5:8Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about God's divine protection over His faithful servants, showcasing how God can thwart the plans of the wicked through dreams, prayers, and discernment. Using examples from the Bible, history, and missionary work, Mortimer emphasizes how God intervenes to disperse evil schemes against His people, even when faced with imminent danger. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's providence and pray for His defense against any malicious plans formed by Satan or others, knowing that no harm can come to them if they follow what is good.
God’s Goal for My Life
By Charles Stanley0PSA 37:5PRO 16:3PRO 19:21JER 29:11ROM 8:28PHP 4:6Charles Stanley emphasizes the assurance that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose, highlighting the divine plan of predestination for believers to be conformed to the image of His Son. He stresses the importance of aligning our goals with God's will, emphasizing the significance of true love and devotion to the Savior over worldly achievements. Stanley encourages setting goals with God in mind, living by faith, and seeking His guidance through prayer to ensure that our aspirations are in line with His desires for our lives.
The Great Choice
By Ernest O'Neill0PRO 19:21ROM 8:281CO 10:31GAL 6:7EPH 1:4EPH 2:10COL 3:23Ernest O'Neill emphasizes the importance of facing reality during moments of despair and anxiety, highlighting that we are not insignificant beings but rather part of the Creator Himself, uniquely created in Christ Jesus for good works. He delves into the concept that our lives are intricately planned by God and that our choices between self-will and God's plan have significant consequences on ourselves and others. O'Neill challenges listeners to align their lives with God's will and plan, emphasizing that true significance, satisfaction, and peace come from fulfilling God's purpose for our lives.
Surrender of the Will
By W.R. Inge0PSA 37:4PRO 19:21ROM 8:28PHP 4:11JAS 4:7W.R. Inge emphasizes the importance of accepting God's will in all circumstances, trusting that what God gives to those who seek to do His will is always the very best, even if it may not seem so at first. He encourages the congregation to desire the glory of God above all else, finding pleasure and satisfaction in whatever God ordains, whether it be sickness, poverty, or any other trial. Inge reminds listeners that true love for God is reflected in finding joy in pleasing Him and aligning their will with His, leading to perfect peace and contentment.
Mind the Checks
By Charles E. Cowman01KI 19:12PSA 25:9PSA 32:8PSA 37:5PRO 3:5PRO 16:9PRO 19:21ISA 30:21JHN 10:27Charles E. Cowman emphasizes the importance of heeding God's gentle checks and restraints, comparing His voice to a still, small voice that must be felt and followed. He encourages listeners to give constant ear to God's gentle touches, obey His leading even when it seems contradictory or foolish, and trust in His wisdom and guidance without relying on their own understanding. By learning to wait on God, obeying His voice, and moving in faith even in the dark, one can develop a deep acquaintanceship and fellowship with God that sustains through trials and pressures.
Buddhism
By Judah Etinger0PRO 19:21MAT 5:6MAT 16:261CO 1:18PHP 4:11Judah Etinger delves into the life of Buddha, born as a prince in India, who embarked on a spiritual journey to find true salvation. After years of searching through meditation and asceticism, Buddha discovered that intense desire was the root cause of human misery and renounced all desires to attain enlightenment. He then shared his experience with others, leading to the establishment of the Buddhist monastic order and the spread of his teachings, which attracted thousands of followers. Buddha's focus was on psychology rather than speculative philosophy, emphasizing the importance of clarity in religious fundamentals and the belief in gods, karma, and the transmigration of souls.
The Man Who Knew Too Much
By Gilbert K. Chesterton0PSA 33:10PSA 46:10PRO 16:9PRO 19:21PRO 21:30ISA 55:8Gilbert K. Chesterton preaches about the mysterious and elusive Prince Michael, known for his talent of appearing and disappearing at will, leading to a series of daring escapes and adventures. The authorities, led by Sir Walter Carey, attempt to capture Prince Michael, who is hiding in a solitary tower by the sea. However, Prince Michael's cunning and resourcefulness result in a series of unexpected and deadly encounters, leaving the officers stunned and outwitted at every turn.
Isaiah 14:22
By Chuck Smith0God's PurposeSubmission to GodPSA 33:11PRO 19:21ISA 14:22ISA 46:10JER 29:11MAT 11:28ACT 2:23ROM 8:28EPH 1:111PE 5:6Chuck Smith emphasizes God's unchanging purpose for humanity, asserting that life is not a product of chance but part of a divine plan known by God from the beginning. He explains that God's ultimate purpose is to have close fellowship with man, which requires willing submission to Him, and that the chaos in the world serves as a reminder of humanity's need for divine guidance. Smith warns against the futility of resisting God's purpose, illustrating that attempts to thwart it only lead to self-destruction. He calls for the church to focus on leading people to Christ rather than merely alleviating suffering, as true redemption comes from turning to the Savior.
Departure From Rome
By Clement of Rome0PRO 19:21PRO 27:1MAT 7:3JHN 1:14JAS 4:13Clement of Rome reflects on his own faults while pointing out the hypocrisy of blaming others for the same mistakes. Despite intending to go to Judæa, he faces delays in arranging his worldly affairs, leading him to contemplate the fleeting nature of life and the traps of false hope. Eventually, he ends up in Alexandria due to adverse winds, where he engages with philosophers who are familiar with the Son of God born in Judæa and His miraculous deeds.
The Key to the Wind
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 103:19PRO 3:5PRO 19:21MRK 4:41ROM 8:28Charles E. Cowman, inspired by a parable, reflects on the sovereignty of God's kingdom over all aspects of life. The story illustrates a lesson on trusting God's wisdom and authority, even when faced with uncertainties and desires for change. It emphasizes the importance of surrendering our will and desires to God, acknowledging His divine control over every situation, and finding peace in loving, trusting, and praising Him in all circumstances.
Don't Miss God's Will in Your Marriage
By Zac Poonen0GEN 24:14GEN 24:27PSA 32:8PRO 3:5PRO 18:22PRO 19:21MAT 19:6ROM 8:281CO 7:39EPH 2:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of seeking God's guidance in choosing a life partner, highlighting that God has a specific plan for each of His children, including in the area of marriage. Poonen warns against entering into a marriage outside of God's will, stressing that it is better to remain single than to make such a crucial decision without God's leading. He uses the example of Abraham's servant seeking a bride for Isaac to illustrate the concept of God's direct involvement in bringing two people together for marriage.
Hadassah, That Is, Esther.
By F.B. Meyer0Divine ProvidenceTrust in God's PlanEST 2:7PSA 37:7PSA 46:1PSA 121:7PRO 19:21ISA 54:17JER 29:11ROM 8:281CO 10:132TI 1:7F.B. Meyer emphasizes the hidden yet powerful presence of God in the story of Esther, illustrating how God orchestrated events for the deliverance of His people even when His name was not mentioned. He highlights that God's preparations for salvation were in place long before the threats against Israel arose, showcasing His sovereignty and foresight. Meyer encourages believers to trust in God's goodness and to remain patient in the face of adversity, reminding them that God has already prepared a way of escape from their troubles. The sermon reassures that God's plans are greater than any evil schemes, and He will ultimately protect and deliver His people.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Compare Pro 16:1, Pro 16:9; Psa 33:10-11). The failure of man's devices is implied.
John Gill Bible Commentary
There are many devices in a man's heart,.... Some about civil things; to get wealth and riches: to obtain honour and glory among men; to attain to a long life, and to perpetuate their memories after death: some about sinful things; to gratify their carnal lusts and sensual appetites; and to do mischief to others, particularly the people of God, and the cause and interest of Christ: some about religious things; coming new doctrines, devising new ordinances and modes of worship; contriving other methods of salvation than by Christ; as by the light of nature; by the law of Moses; by mere morality, civility, and external justice between man and man; by keeping to the religion they were born and brought up in; and by a mere outward profession of religion, and submission to ordinances, and performance of duties, and a multitude more of the like kind; nevertheless, the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand; and can never be frustrated by the devices of man's heart, though there are many, and that but one; see Psa 33:10. This may be applied to the Gospel, and the scheme of salvation in it, called the whole counsel of God, Act 20:27; it being the fruit of infinite wisdom, and the effect of a divine council between the eternal Three, and full of the best advice and instructions to the sons of men; and which has stood, and shall stand, notwithstanding the persecutions of wicked men, the craft of false teachers, and the ridicule of a profane world; it will continue till all the elect are gathered in, even, to the end of the world; and so will the ordinances of it, which are also called the counsel of God, Luk 7:30; and which will continue till the second coming of Christ. Moreover, the purposes of God, his counsels of old, or his eternal decrees, may be here meant; which are wisely formed in his own breast, and are not frustrable; and according to which counsel of his will all things are done in nature, providence, and grace; all things in this world are ordered as he pleases, and all things are done as he has ordered them; all his purposes are or will be fulfilled; his designs will be accomplished in the world and in his church, in spite of all the schemes, contrivances, and opposition of men and devils.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here we have, 1. Men projecting. They keep their designs to themselves, but they cannot hide them from God; he knows the many devices that are in men's hearts, - devices against his counsels (as those, Psa 2:1-3; Mic 4:11), - devices without his counsel (no regard had to his providence, as those Jam 4:13, this and the other they will do, and not take God along with them), - devices unlike God's counsels; men are wavering in their devices, and often absurd and unjust, but God's counsels are wise and holy, steady and uniform. 2. God overruling. Various men have various designs, according as their inclination or interest leads them, but the counsel of the Lord, that shall stand, whatever becomes of the devices of men. His counsel often breaks men's measures and baffles their devices; but their devices cannot in the least alter his counsel, not disturb the proceedings of it, nor put him upon new counsels, Isa 14:24; Isa 46:11. What a check does this give to politic designing men, who think they can outwit all mankind, that there is a God in heaven that laughs at them! Psa 2:4. What comfort does this speak to all God's people, that all God's purposes, which we are sure are right and good, shall be accomplished in due time!