We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God's purpose prevails.
Proverbs 19: 21
One of the truths we all have learned in the past few months is that sometimes our best laid plans do not come to fruition. We can plan and brainstorm to our heart’s content, but in the end, all of our planning may come to naught.
This realization can be unnerving and overwhelming. We realize that we are not as much the complete masters of our fate, as we wish that we were. However, this humbling realization can also be freeing.
I was recently on a Zoom call with people from across the state. We began with the ice breaker question, “How have you seen God’s unexpected blessings in the last few months?” Many spoke of how their plans had changed. Anticipated events were cancelled. Yet in almost every case, God had something better in mind. One of my friends was able to extend his time with family in Kalispell, due to an obligation afterwards which had been cancelled. He relished this unexpected opportunity.
Even my next-door neighbor expressed to me that the slower pace brought about this pandemic has been a blessing for him, and his wife. They were always going, all the time. Our present situation forced them to slow down, and to enjoy life more.
How is God accomplishing His purpose for you during this time? This is a good question to ask yourself. Planning and preparing for the future are good and helpful actions, but in the end we all submit ourselves to the Lord’s plan…
Prayer
Sovereign God,
We confess that we are often frustrated when our plans are interrupted, and changed unexpectedly. Sometimes this frustration turns to anger, which is expressed in negative ways. Forgive us for our outbursts. Help us to entrust our lives, our families, and our future to You. We know that You love us, and that Your plans for us are far better than any plans we would make for ourselves. We pray this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
