His word is flawless

This world is so good at tearing us down. Today there was a news story about a sports celebrity who was arrested for a DUI. I remember watching this man as he was becoming famous. He was, at his peak, incredible. For many years he seemed perfect. Perfect talent. Perfect life. He was the best at his sport. He was married to a beautiful woman, had beautiful children.
Then one morning we woke up and learned he wasn't who he had been portraying himself to be. He was neck deep in a life that was so full of sin that he lost his family because of it. Heartbreaking to see someone who couldn't see past his flesh.

What does that have to do with this proverb you may be asking yourself.
I can remember a time when my life was similar to this man's life. A time when I leaned on my own understanding. I made every decision based on what seemed right in my own eyes. I was miserable. It seemed as though every time I followed the advice of friends that lived their lives like I did , nothing got better. I can remember how hopeless I began to feel.
Looking at that man's mug shot today I saw that same hopelessness. I can remember feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. The weight of every choice, decision that I had made.  I saw that in him today. That no matter his level of talent, his wealth , his lifestyle- he is living with the weight of his choices on his shoulders.

I was freed from that weight. I remember when I came to Jesus. I distinctly remember the actual physical feeling of the weight of my decisions, my sins, being lifted from my shoulders as I took His yoke upon mine. I remember the realization that I wasn't alone anymore.

Since that day He HAS been my shield.
There have certainly been days that have been hard. Days that I've cried. However, when I do start to feel like I can't do it alone, I am reminded that I'm not. When I grab my bible and open it up; when I pour my heart out to Him, God is faithful to encourage me.

Not once have I followed advice from the Bible and felt as though I were worse off for doing so. Every time I take refuge in Him He is faithful to shield me. Today I am so thankful for the gift He has given me in knowing that He is my shield and that I am always welcome to take refuge in Him. I  am not left alone to be destroyed by this world or my own decisions. I know that all this world has to offer is false advice. I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to find true advice.
I am so very grateful that EVERY word of God is flawless.