We all make plans. We set goals, imagine outcomes and do our best to shape the days ahead. But as Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

In this devotional, Chaplain Shelby reflects on what it means to plan with purpose while trusting God with the outcome. It is a reminder that even when life does not unfold the way we expected, God sees the full picture and continues to guide us with wisdom, love and purpose.

“What’s Your Plan”

In the book of James, we find the writer addressing some basic issues of everyday life for the believer. He writes about the testing of our faith and challenges us to “count it all joy” when we are pressed and challenged for our faith. He later challenges us to not only “hear the word of God, but to do what it says.” He teaches that “faith without works is dead” and that “taming the tongue” is a difficult task. Then, he reminds us that “our lives are like a vapor,” so be careful not to boast about what you will do tomorrow. Instead, say, “If it is God’s will, I will do this or that.”

Proverbs 16:9 reads, “In their hearts, humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” The Message Bible translation reads, “We plan the way we want to live, but only God makes us able to live it.”

In a recent Verse of the Day devotional, it is written:

“It seems to be our human nature to want to always be in charge. We make plans, set goals and plot our course. We really do all we can to shape our future with our own hands. But Proverbs 16:9 is a reminder that while we have the freedom to make plans, it is God who directs our steps. This verse isn’t about abandoning our dreams or goals; rather, it’s a call to align our intentions with God’s will. It’s about recognizing that our knowledge is limited and our view is incomplete, but God sees the whole picture. He knows the best path for us and leads us there, often in ways we didn’t foresee.”

How many of you have prayed, “Lord, this is what I really want and I’m going to put all of my energy and effort into making this happen. Lord, I ask You to open the doors that need to be opened and close the ones that need to be closed.”

And then, when your plan did not work out, you get mad at God and say, “God, why did You let that happen?” As time passes, you look back at how the situation played out and realize the outcome of this alternate plan was better than what you had planned. You see, God really does know best.

The Verse of the Day devotional continues:

“So, as you go about your day, allow this verse to sink into your heart. Make your plans, set your goals, but do so with a spirit of surrender, inviting God into your planning. Trust in His guidance, for He sees the whole journey and promises to lead you where you need to be.”

Ask yourself these two questions:

“How can I more actively seek God’s guidance in my planning?”

“Are there areas in my life where I need to trust God more with the outcomes?”

Prayer:

Father, as I look at the day ahead, I pause to submit my plans to You. I know that I can only see a small portion of what I think lies ahead, but I know that You can see both the beginning and the end of my day.

Guide my thoughts and actions, ensuring they align with Your divine will for me. When my desires stray from Your path, gently steer me back, granting me the humility to accept Your better way.

I place my trust in Your wisdom and love, confident that You are guiding me toward a future filled with hope and purpose. May my heart remain open to Your leading, every step of today and beyond.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

From the Heart,
Chaplain Shelby