Matthew 2:7 Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.
Job 5:12-13 He frustrates the devices of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. He catches the wise in their own craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are brought to a quick end.
Psalms 33:10 The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples.
Proverbs 21:30 No wisdom, no understanding, no counsel can avail against the LORD.
Lamentations 3:37 Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord has commanded it?
1 Corinthians 3:19-20 For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.”
“Those who look for Jesus will see him: those who truly see him will worship him: those who worship him will consecrate their substance to him.” (Spurgeon) Note the difference between Herod and the wise men. The wise men went looking with a sense of urgency but Herod had none. The wise men came to the baby Jesus with gifts and worshipped, Herod had other plans. The plans of man will never alter the plans and purposes of God. Man will try to put a spin on their intents and try to hide it in a cloak of deception but God knows the intents and purpose of their hearts. As hard as a man will try, as conning and deceiving as they can be, and as much worldly and fleshly wisdom they can display, none of it will hinder even the tiniest portion of God’s purpose and plans.
When our heart and soul’s desire is to find Jesus, He will be found. When He is found our hearts and souls will worship Him and no longer claim anything more worthy than Him. Lip service to our searching and worship will leave us void of satisfaction.