AUGUST 1 – Guided by God’s Hand3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 21:1; 1 Thessalonians 1–3//3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon//________________________________________“The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.” — Proverbs 21:1 (ESV)“For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything.” — 1 Thessalonians 1:8 (ESV)“But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you—” — 1 Thessalonians 3:6 (ESV)________________________________________Ever feel like your life is a mix of big decisions, unexpected turns, and waiting for things to make sense? Maybe it’s choosing classes, figuring out friendships, or wondering what your future holds. Proverbs 21:1 reminds us that God is in control, even over kings and leaders—so He can definitely guide your life too. In 1 Thessalonians 1:8, we see how the Thessalonian believers lived with such faith that their example spread everywhere. And in 1 Thessalonians 3:6, Paul celebrates their faith and love that stayed strong even through challenges.Your life might feel small compared to the world’s noise, but when you trust God’s guidance and keep your faith steady, your example can ripple out farther than you think.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. God Directs Paths: If God can guide a king’s heart (Proverbs 21:1), how can you trust Him to guide your choices and future, even when things seem uncertain?2. Faith That Spreads: The Thessalonian believers’ faith was known everywhere (1 Thessalonians 1:8). What can you do this week to live out your faith in a way that impacts those around you?3. Encouragement Matters: How can you encourage someone’s faith today, like Timothy encouraged Paul with good news (1 Thessalonians 3:6)?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEGod guides every step of your life—so trust Him, stay faithful, and let your faith inspire others.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for being in control of my life even when things feel uncertain. Help me to trust Your guidance, stay strong in my faith, and live in a way that points others to You. Use my words and actions to encourage and inspire those around me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.