A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9

Devotion

Proverbs 16:9 resonates deeply with the common human experience of frustration when our plans don't unfold as anticipated or at the pace we desire. In these moments of tension, I've observed two typical reactions in myself and others: either we try to control the situation by "doing more, better" (as a friend once put it), or we become angry and distant from God when he doesn't behave or conform to our expectations.

It's understandable. We meticulously create plans, budgets, schedules, and reservations, only to see them fall apart. The root of the problem lies in curating expectations based on specific outcomes. In fact, the desire for certainty is a powerful draw for our hearts, minds, and souls. Over time, I've realized how easy it is to actually worship certainty and the outcomes we crave. What if, instead of just the results, God's main focus is what we develop on the journey to those results, drawing us into a deeper reliance on him?

Consider road trips as an analogy. Most people enjoy road trips not just for the destination, but for all the stops, conversations, and experiences along the way. This illustrates a crucial point about Scripture: God is consistently and actively involved in the lives of his people, and it's always for their good (Romans 8:28-29). However, this often doesn't feel good to them. They may have to endure longer waits, hardship, unexpected changes, and suffering. Yet, all the while, God is accomplishing something far more significant than the outcome they had planned. What I consistently see is God building their faith, day by day, cultivating the dependency and trust they will ultimately need when they arrive at his predetermined outcome (Proverbs 16:9).

Ponder These Questions:

• What might God want to be accomplishing in my life and in the lives of those around me during this current season?
• How is God strengthening my trust and faith at this moment?
• What untruthful narratives, questions, or thoughts about God's character am I entertaining or dwelling on?

Take Action:

• Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal God's goodness and purposes in your current season of life and for eyes to see what he is doing. 

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, I confess my frustration when my plans fall apart. I try to control things or get angry when they don't go my way. Forgive me for worshiping certainty and outcomes. Help me trust that you are working for my good, even when the journey is hard. Holy Spirit, show me what you are building in me right now. Strengthen my faith and help me see your purpose in this season. Replace my doubts with your truth. Amen.

Andy Rauschkolb
OKC Location Pastor 

Resources

• Watch the When Nothing Goes as Planned series by Pastor Bill Search.
• Listen to Same God by Crossings Venue Worship.

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