Sometimes we make plans and things go exactly as we’d hoped; other times, things go differently than we had planned. Sometimes things are more difficult, at times things go better than expected. I’ve learned we start with a plan and then just trust God with the journey. I used to be more of a planner, although I have learned that a plan is an idea of what we hope for. Though it is in God’s plan where we can find peace, even if His plan looks different than our own. I look back at some of my plans and I am so glad they were not in God’s will for my life. I also look back and I am not fully certain of what His plan was, but I find solace in knowing that it was His plan. For I know that if God does things for my good, then I have to trust Him, even when things don’t feel good. Maybe I will know someday completely here, maybe I won’t. Though I will keep planning my future, I will trust Him on the journey. I know plans are subject to change. Although His love remains unchanged. It is in that fact, where I hold tight to God, through all the chapters in this life. In the planned and unplanned, we can always rest in the knowledge that He has a plan for our good. Friend, as we write schedules, dreams, hopes in our hearts; may we keep God in ours on our journey through life. For if we keep God in our hearts we can better see, there is one plan that we can always count on; His plan.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Romans 8:28 NIV

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Psalm 33:11 NIV

But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.

Proverbs 16:9 NIV

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.

Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

For I know the plans I have for you.” Declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.