My Plans, God's Hands

“My delayed desires may cause initial despair. My deferred dreams may cause immediate despondency, but when my expectations are realised, it will be sweet and satisfying and my soul will be revived and refreshed.” Proverbs 13:12 (Personalized)

Thus far, each of my journals carry the text Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” As one of my favourite texts from childhood, it serves as a constant reminder that I am not forgotten.

Over the years, whenever I place my plans in God’s hands they have borne much fruit, even amid sadness. The old paths make way for new and even when the journey is an unknown course, I can move forward in peace, with assurance and in faith. When I think of how the Lord has moved me through situations and challenges, my heart is filled with gratitude. I am grateful to be moving into my purpose as I see the blessings emanating from others.

One quote that stays with me is, “God has already prepared the way; He’s just preparing you.” Again, I find myself asking, “Am I preparing in faith for what I’m praying for?”

David, from Shepherd boy to King, anointed whilst another still sat on the throne. He had cultivated a faith that would end up slaying a giant. Each one of us may question the path God sets us on, but may we move forward still in faith and assurance of the One who calls us. May we surrender our plans to Him.

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and He will make your paths straight.”  Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV

“For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” Phillipians 2:13, NIV

“God’s plans for you are better than any plans you have for yourself. So don’t be afraid of God’s will, even if it’s different from yours.” - Greg Laurie

“Faith is about recognizing that your life is in God’s hands, and that in His hands, there is greatness.” - Gift Gugu Mona

“And I’m sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for having a plan and purpose laid out for me even before I was created. Help me to walk past fear into faith, knowing that You will work everything out for me. Help me to defeat the obstacles that will seek to oppose me and tap into Your power. May I experience Your peace leaving my plans in Your hands. In Jesus name, Amen.

“Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose.” - Viktor Frankl

“God will ensure my success in accordance with His plan, not mine.” – Francis Chan

‘When our focus is on God’s purpose over our plans, we are freed from the pressure they create.” - Christina Patterson

“And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good if we love God and are fitting into His plans.” Romans 8:28, TLB

Be blessed to be a blessing.