Would you agree that our culture today has become oversaturated with ‘purpose’ and ‘abundance’ and ‘self’? I’m not talking just about the world, but in the Christian community as well. How many times have you heard and regurgitated ‘God has a plan for my life’ as a movie reel, ideal for the big screen, plays through your mind dramatizing everything your little heart could possibly desire? (or maybe that’s just me?)
I know I’ve been guilty of telling God how He should direct my steps according to my perfect plan. If he would just provide this opportunity or open that door; if he would only change this person or that circumstance – everything would be perfect.
I step into the roll of director of my own (Oscar worthy) movie and designate God as producer, assistant, and stage handler.
The truth is, God does have a plan and His plan is perfect – but do we truly believe this even if it’s not our perfect plan?
This is evidenced to us all throughout scripture in all those who suffered, who struggled, who experienced pain and discomfort and even still, God’s plan was at work.
I’m sure they had a different idea of what their life would be like following the God of all creation.
Think of the Israelites escaping from Egypt. How excited were they to be removed from slavery and headed to the Promised Land – the land of milk and honey; only to wander hungry and thirsty in the wilderness for 40 years! At one point, even wishing they were back in Egypt!? (Exodus 16:3)
Have you ever come to that point in your faith?
Where going back to the old way seems easier than following Christ?
God’s purpose for us is ultimate sanctification, not temporary satisfaction.
God’s plan involves stretching and growing us, not for us to be comfortable and content.
To us, it may look messy and ugly; to the Lord it is perfection.
Don’t feed into the standards of the world’s purpose and plan, which involves ‘I’ at the center but embrace God’s will, place him as your center and allow him to direct your steps.
Father,
How could I even dare to tell you my plan for my life. You designed the whole universe and set out a plan for this world and everyone in it. My plans shrivel at the sight of your majesty. Please direct my steps Lord. My heart is willing to do your will. Even though it may be hard or messy, I know you will strengthen me and not allow me to grow weary. Help me to put my trust and faith in you always. Thank you for your perfect plan. In Jesus’ name -Amen.
Stop & Reflect: Do you find yourself telling God what your life should look like or what you think you should have, instead of surrendering fully to his will? Do you realize that his perfect plan is at work this very minute?
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic, feel free to share your heart in the comments below.
God bless.
Anita Marie
Woman of His Word 
Amen!! Such a good reminder. HE is in control and he sees the whole pic while we just see a tiny little piece of the scene. Thank You Lord! And thank u Nita for sharing! God bless you
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Yes, there is so much we don’t see; especially outside of our bubble. He is so good!! Thank you for sharing, glad the Lord spoke to your heart in this. God bless.
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I think thats why Jeremiah 29:11 is so loved even if we dont always look at the full context. We love to know that God has a plan for our lives and He does!
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Yes, just resting in that truth brings so much peace! Thanks for sharing Latoya.
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Thank you for the reminder. I’m guilty of the same, asking God for what I want to see happen in my life, and not asking for his will to be done. I now realize that even my “suffering” is part of the plan to something bigger and greater in my life.
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Amen, can you imagine if God gave us everything we asked for, I don’t think it’d be as perfect as we think. The suffering is a must for many reasons. Thank you for sharing, God bless.
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In John 3:30 it says…He must increase, but I must decrease. That scripture is a reminder for that I know I need to step out of the way sometimes. We don’t realize how disruptive we can be when God is trying to help us, guide us, and lead us in the right path. You hit it right on the head in this whole post.
Loved reading this, and it’s very relative.
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Thank you for sharing that verse, definitely one to meditate on. I agree, God really doesn’t need our help, all He asks is that we’re obedient but even that’s hard. Thank you so much for sharing your heart, I’m glad the Lord spoke to you through it. God bless.
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