Each Friday my writing stems from a word prompt. Five minutes, one word prompt. The prompt this week is … Way.
I admire people who have a plan. They seem to know where they are headed in life, how they will get there, and all which should occur on the way. Listening to them share their plan, they always seem so valiant, resourceful, and full of vision.
If I am honest, I don’t think I have ever had a five year plan for my life. I’m not even sure I have had a one year plan. Yet I also know I don’t fly by the seat of my pants or “wing it”, as I am way too much of a chicken to live carelessly.
My days just seem to unfold.
I do plan my days, even keeping a desk calendar, so I guess that would count as somewhat of a plan. But our plans are a funny thing. Our plans are practical, logical, reasonable, and keep us going a way aimed at productivity.
Yet something happens along the way. Plans change. They don’t always pan out the way we hope.
We soon discover it isn’t something that happens along the way.
It is Someone who happens along the way.
Our God is sovereign over all. All of our life. Every day. Every moment. I remember a quote by Max Lucado:
“It all works out in the end. If it hasn’t worked out yet, then it’s not the end.â€
Just that simple. All of our life, all of our days are held in the sovereign hands of our God.
Yes, something is happening along the way.
Whatever comes our way,
may we follow Him.
“Teach me to your ways, O Lord, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart so that I may honor you.” (Proverbs 86:11, NLT)
** This song has been on repeat for a few days …
Today I am joining … Five Minute Friday and Faith On Fire and Fresh Market Friday and Faith ‘N Friends .
I like to have a plan, but it’s also important to be open to the unexpected and it’s so encouraging that God is in charge- that he can see the way ahead clearly even when we are uncertain!
It continually amazes me that even in the unexpected, I see it was all in the plan – His 🙂
I love the Max Lucado quote! May we rest in the promise that it all works out in the end!
I read that quote many years ago and remind myself of it often.
What a complete and awesome gift to know that all of our days are held in HIs hand in spite of MY best laid plans! Happy to start my morning here, Joanne…happy Friday!
I enjoy starting my Friday’s with your linkup as I find encouragement shared there continually. Blessings!
Love the quote by Max L. And so thankful God is in control of the Believer! Blessed by your visit today!
So much truth in your words Joanne.. I believe the key is to be flexible no matter how the road turns..
blessings
Del, your comment is powerful. We can trust the turns as we know the One who turns the road. Blessings!
Since retiring, my plan is based on Proverbs 16:9, “In his heart, a man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”
So true, Debbie. Although we are not retired yet, I know the Lord will direct our steps as to when to retire and what to do in those days.
So true- it’s someONE not someTHING that happens in our lives that shapes us and molds us and loves us along the way. Thanks for sharing!!
I like to have a plan. I am thankful when God reminds me that His plan is always best. 🙂
Sadly, I’m shocked at how long it has taken me to learn not to get angry when God doesn’t follow my plan. It sounds silly to say it out loud, but I have had to say it in order to face it. God’s way is best. Is it good to plan? Yes. But it’s better to understand that when God changes those plans—and He will—that He always changes them for the better.
Angela, not silly at all. I know I have at times *suggested* a plan to God. And yes, I have gotten mad when He didn’t take the suggestion. It was the way in which He began to teach me His plans were for my good and to trust Him to hold the plans. Grateful you shared!
Thank you for the song, Joanne! I used to listen to Kathy Troccoli years ago and haven’t thought of her music in a long time. The song is a perfect compliment to your post. Thank you for sharing both! Cindy #fmf
If it hasn’t worked out, it’s not the end.
Oh…yeah! 🙂
It is not the end yet, Andrew. Keep on keeping on! Blessings!
I’ve never had a five year plan for my live or anything like that. I seem to move through life already knowing what the days hold (work, mothering, being a wife and homemaker) and I think that’s the problem. My life is predictable and sometimes I forget to look for the unexpected. I’ve missed you!
Barbie, I so agree with you. At times, the days may seem mundane and predictable. May He shake us out of any lethargy so we see Him in the midst of each and every day. So good to connect again! xo
Your post makes me think of Jeremiah 29:11!