SUBMITTING OUR PLANS TO GOD

Proverbs 16:9 says, "We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps." We need to understand that even though God has given us the ability to make plans using our own free will to make decisions, God decides our ultimate end. For example, God has control over our existence in this world. If God wants to take us home to be with Him in Heaven, nothing or no one can stop Him. God knows the number of our days in this world. Jesus illustrated this to us in a story of a rich man who had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. He said to himself, "What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops." then he said, "I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I'll sit back and say to myself, 'My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry (happy)!'" But God said to him, "You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?" "Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God (Luke 12:16-21)."

One lesson we can learn from the rich man is that we can plan our future, but God determines our existence. As a result, we need to continue relying on God for our future plans. God wants us to make plans for the future, but we need to submit them to God, for He is the only one who can ultimately make it happen. We need to give our plans to Him and let Him guide us. If our plan aligns with God's will, then so be it. However, if our plan does not align with God's will, we must change it to align with God's will. Since God knows our future end, we must rely on God for our future plans. Every time I make a plan, I always seek God for His will on my plan. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take." I always pray that if my plan is according to His will, then let it come to fruition. However, if my plan is not according to His will, then let him close the door and lead me to the right plan.

God wants us to make plans for the future, but we must submit them to Him for His guidance. Let Him determine what is good for us. We will never be disappointed if we continually seek His will in our lives. 

Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) Why is it important to make plans? Why is it important to submit my plans to God? What lesson can I learn from today's devotion?

Take a moment to write down all your worries today. Then, lift them to God in prayer, surrendering them to His will and trusting in His guidance.

Prayer:

Dear Father in Heaven, thank you that my future is in your good hands. Please help me to make plans and submit them to you. If my plan today aligns with your will, please make it happen. However, if my plan does not align with your will, please adjust it according to yours. I want your will to be done in my life because you know what is best for me. In your name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.