So often, the plans we make go awry. We carefully lay down our goals – work hard to achieve them – almost accomplish them – only to crash and fall at what should be the finish line. We rely so much on our own plans, without giving much thought to what God has done, what He’s doing and what He will do. It would be much easier to go right to Him in the first place, but human nature makes us think we can do it all on our own.

The old adage, “The best laid plans of mice and men often go wrong,” was turned into a novel, by John Steinbeck. It was then rewritten into a screenplay and presented as a movie. The level of truth in that statement ranks right at the top of the list. How many times have you planned the perfect vacation, with remarkable places to see, beautiful weather and smooth sailing all the way. Those plans can immediately take a turn for the worst when the clouds appear in the sky – the travel arrangements are changed – when someone gets sick – when an unplanned crisis occurs.

The same is true when we plan for our careers. We go through the process of learning all the necessary skills. We go to special schools to accomplish our dreams. We struggle to pay off student loans and the thought of conquering the world becomes impossible. Another scenario – You enter a relationship. At first your whole life revolves around that person. You begin to plan a future together. You start to see flaws that could easily destroy that partnership. You fell in love, but now you aren’t sure anymore. Or you may have spent a lifetime with your spouse. Your retirement is in the near future. You wonder if that union could be erased in a flash with a single word – CANCER.

The truth is, we can plan and think we have control, but life happens. It’s full of surprises and challenges. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t plan. It doesn’t mean we should blindly go forth and expect everything to fall into place. God’s plan for us is perfect. Because He knows what’s best for us, we can count on it. He wants everyone to share in His heavenly kingdom, He created the perfect blueprint for each individual life. When He returns again, His plan will be completed. Come quickly, Lord, Jesus.

Psalm 25:5 “Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long.”