Many are the plans in the mind of a man,
But it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
Proverbs 19:21 ESV
“No more pages, how can that be?” That was my question when I realized my desk calendar ended at the end of June instead of December. It is a calendar in addition to a daily list that keeps me organized. As a multi-task person, they are critical.
This list includes what needs to be accomplished each day and a plan for how to do so. I was overwhelmed with frustration when I realized my daily lists were not recorded. The office supply store was sixty miles from my home, and ordering online did not allow me to see if the pages met my expectations.
Then, I was reminded that I could plan my schedules all I want, but if they are not committed to the Lord for His purpose, things may happen that show I am on the wrong path. The only thing guaranteed is what God has purposed. So, with the frustration came reevaluation.
What am I doing with my days that prevents me from following His plan rather than my own? There are new ideas and thoughts in my head constantly. But which of those is from my desire and which are God’s desire for me to accomplish His purpose?
With this new revelation and evaluation, I knew it was time to let go of things on my list of ‘to-do’s’. Serving God’s purpose is the most fulfilling thing we can do. When we get that right, plans are guaranteed to take place. The wonderful thing about it is that we each are given a calling and plan that is tailor-made just for us. He directs us as we seek Him and pray.
When working out a plan and nothing works as it should, perhaps it is time to ask questions. Have we prayed about it? Have we committed it to the Lord? Are we trying to accomplish it on our own strength? Do we need to let go of something? These are a few things to ponder before moving forward.
How does my story end? I have a new calendar, but I have also reduced my workload by letting go of something. Yes, I prayed and wrestled with the decision for two months, and the result was peace; therefore, I am confident it is God’s plan, not mine.
Virginia Grounds is a speaker, author, Bible teacher, former radio host and effective communicator who loves to encourage others through inspirational writing. She is an AWSA Certified Coach and a P.O.W.E.R Speaker.
In addition, Virginia served in full-time ministry with her husband for 17 years, helping to meet the needs of those in crisis due to crime or disaster. She has served in multiple leadership roles in her church, as well as teaching Bible Studies to women.
She has traveled on mission trips to several countries as well as the United States, but her focus in retirement is on writing to inspire.
www.facebook.com/virginia.grounds
www.breakthroughchristianpublishing.com
Find Virginia’s book here:
Amazon: https://a.co/d/cDft2D8
I would feel lost without my day planner, but I would BE lost without Jesus. Thank you for the reminder to look to the Lord to direct my plans, Virginia.
I totally agree, Tracy! My day planner tells me what I’ve scheduled for each day, but Jesus orchestrates my life and my plans.
Thank you Tracy.
I love what Virginia says, to leave our plans to the Lord. So much easier said than done. But when I do that, when I open my heart to God’s plans instead of my own, he leads me to places I could never have imagined! And places that I would have never thought I could do what needed to be done, but God in charge, with letting him lead me, we are promised to be exactly what and where we are supposed to be. Thank you, Virginia, for your words that remind us!
You’re right, Gail. Even though I make plans for today, tomorrow, or the future, I find God has a way of changing my plans. He has a divine plan for us and we must be pliable so we can follow His lead. He will definitely take us places we never dreamed.