BREAKTHROUGH IN TRUSTING GOD’S PLAN
You can make many plans, but the LORD’s purpose will prevail.
Proverbs 19:21 (NLT)
In April 1966, the front page of Time Magazine read, Is God Dead? These three words created a huge wave with all sorts of reviews and a slew of responses from those who called themselves Christians and those who didn’t. Some people said the times were turning, and this was the mark of people no longer following Jesus. People declared as culture evolved, education deepened and tech developed God would simply fade away. The problem is people have said things like this for years, yet God has always sat comfortably and safely on His throne. Christians are more terrified than ever before because it seems like culture is seemingly moving further and further away from God. As the proverb above shows us, God’s plans can never fail. Many people have planned, dreamed and created plans, but few would say everything has gone according to the plan. Proverbs tells us that God’s plans never fail, not once. There is nothing in human history that has surprised Him. God doesn’t evolve, learn or grow because He’s already perfect. This should bring calm to the chaos that surrounds us. If I were facing a major surgery, the skill and track record of the doctor would determine a lot of my feelings. We have a God who has never once failed in His plans and never will.
When I watch a movie and don’t know the outcome, it creates some anxiousness. Once I’ve seen the movie, even in the intense parts, I have peace because I know how the story goes. Christian, we know the ending. Jesus wins. He never falls off His throne. No matter what happens in culture or your life, His plans advance. Don’t trust what you see or feel. Remember, God has a track record of taking dead things and breathing life into them. So, if your life is great, remember that every good and perfect gift comes from above. If you’re struggling and wondering why you’re in this situation if you thought life would be different, trust that God’s plans for you are good. Keep your eyes on Him and worship Him.
Worship doesn’t remind God who He is; it reminds us of who He is. God doesn’t need to be reminded of His power, but we do. Every day, start your morning praising God; this is central to keeping your heart and affections fixed on Him throughout the day. His plans don’t fail. His plans are good. Trust Him today, and let His peace fill you.
APPLICATION: Thank God for the good plans He has for your life regardless of the season.
PRAYER: Ask the Spirit to strengthen and empower you to trust God’s plans. Ask the Spirit to allow you to have calm in the chaos. Let a non-anxious presence rise in you through the power of the Spirit. Ask God to increase your trust.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?