Job Profile for a Soul-Shaper
November 16, 2023
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. Proverbs 3:5-7 NIV
The phrase “chip off the old block” is so common in the English language that it is found in virtually every collection of English idiom or expression compilations, and in many dictionaries. It means someone who very closely resembles a parent or another close and influential person in their life. As you know, sometimes the phrase is intended as a compliment; sometimes, not so much.
Parents and influencers of the young generation are most influential by their examples, the lives they live. As they live life with others around them, their examples teach, intentionally or accidentally. Proverbs 3:5-7 tells us the life choices of a powerfully positive soul-shaper.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart. In every area of your life, your faith is your firm foundation. It’s not just believing in God. It is deeply rooted trust in the Lord, the King of your life.
Lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him. You don’t divide situations into categories—the ones you can handle on your own and the ones that require God’s wisdom. They all are under His wisdom and guidance. You actively seek His direction and are committed to do what God says, sight unseen.
Do not be wise in your own eyes. You recognize that everything you have and are is a direct gift from the Father. You don’t take credit for your success. You aren’t seeking personal followers—you point beyond yourself to God as the Source of wisdom and direction.
Fear the Lord. This is active and supreme respect and reverence for God. You live your life in such a way that shows His approval is your ultimate filter. If it won’t please Him, you aren’t doing it.
Shun evil. The dictionary says to shun means to avoid, ignore, and reject thoroughly and consistently. You don’t flirt with evil, go as close to the edge as you can without actually sinning, or just sin a little. You keep yourself as pure as you possibly can.
God’s reward is that He makes your paths straight. The soul you shape will have the best mentoring possible because you have lived with clarity and purity.
- Lord, help me choose today to make these choices for myself and my flock.