The best laid plans - 23 May 2023

Earlier this year I had to plan a big event at work. I had a clear vision, I mapped out the steps, and believed I had it all figured out. However, as I began working on it, unforeseen challenges arose, other members of the planning committee came in with different priorities at the last minute and my carefully crafted plans seemed to crumble before my eyes. I felt frustrated and discouraged, wondering why my efforts weren’t yielding the expected results.

In moments like these, Proverbs 16:9 serves as a gentle reminder that, ultimately, it is the Lord who establishes our steps.

Just as an architect envisions a blueprint before constructing a building, or I try to get an events committee to agree to something, we too make plans for our lives. We set goals, pursue dreams, and make decisions based on our own understanding. However, it is crucial to recognise that our plans are subject to God’s sovereign will. He knows what lies ahead, and his purposes will prevail.

While it is important to plan and take proactive steps, we must hold our plans with open hands, ready to yield to God’s leading. His redirections may not always align with our expectations, but we can trust that he is working all things together for our good, whether in our professional or personal lives.

Today, let us surrender our plans to the Lord, trusting that he establishes our steps. May we seek his wisdom and guidance, even when our own plans falter. As we align our hearts with his purposes, we can find peace and assurance, knowing that his ways are higher and his plans are greater than our own.

Prayer: Gracious Lord, I come before you humbly, acknowledging that my plans are subject to your authority. When my own plans crumble or face unexpected challenges, grant me the faith to surrender to your leading. Align my heart with your purposes and give me the courage to follow wherever you may lead. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen