Have you ever had a plan that didn’t pan out the way you expected? Over the holidays my wife and I helped my son move to Michigan for a new job. I planned to get a good night’s rest so that I could drive the first five hours, and he could drive the last.
I got to bed on time but woke up at three in the morning and couldn’t get back to sleep. I eventually decided to stay up and begin our drive. I had every intention of completing my shift. My plan was simple and feasible–at least I thought so.
Shortly into the trip my eyelids grew heavy, and I realized that my plan wouldn’t hold up. I gave the wheel to my son who took control and got us safely to our destination.
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This reminds me how often my plans take a back seat to God’s purpose for my life. It is not to say that I don’t plan, but things don’t always pan out the way I expected.
For example, this week I celebrate 14 years at Guideposts. When I started here, my plan was to stay for two years and then proceed to be a pastor in New York City. God had other plans.
Two years ago my son Paul purchased an apartment in a very trendy neighborhood with the thought of staying there for several years. But God had a different plan for him too.
There is a proverb that says, “You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.” Another translation states, “We humans keep brainstorming plans, but God’s purpose prevails.”
It’s only natural to make plans and set goals for the New Year. This is my practice as well. But my plans and God’s purpose for me don’t always align, and I’m glad they don’t. God’s purpose is always better.
As you make your plans for the New Year, keep an open heart to God’s purpose. We don’t always know how, why and when it will unfold, but God’s purpose always prevails. Why are God’s plans always better than our own? Please share with us.
Lord, in the New Year let Your purpose prevail in our lives.
