"Changes in Plans"

 

“Changes in Plans”

 

One of the blessings Karen and I have enjoyed during retirement is travel. We thank God for His provision of health and financial resources (far beyond what we ever imagined) to visit places we never thought we’d see. These memories will stay with us for as long as we live and/or have all our marbles.

Enter 2020 and the impact of COVID. (In the recent posting “Tunnels” I shared a bit of how it affected our “on the road {or in the air} again” plans.) While these changes were disappointing we recalled God’s words in Proverbs 16:9 (NLT): “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” (The McMillan paraphrase is, “God reserves the right to change our plans.”) Even though we may not understand the “whys” of the situations life sends our way we take comfort in David’s words: “As for God, his way is perfect….” (Psalm 18:30) and “The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord.” (Psalm 37:23, NLT),

Scripture tells of some changes in plans God’s servants made which were directed by circumstances. Paul told the church in Rome. “…I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now)….” (Romans 1:13). Eventually he got there—but as a prisoner of the Empire so his fare was paid. And our Lord’s brother wrote to his fellow believers, “…I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, (but) I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith….” (Jude 3). His resulting words have provided counsel to God’s people for almost 2000 years.

It’s certainly wise to make plans but in doing so we must consider our circumstances and resources—see Jesus’ two “miniparables” in Luke 14:28-32—but most importantly God’s purposes (“…You ought to say, if it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”—James 4:15, emphasis added). Interestingly, the day before composing this article God gave us direction concerning a trip later this year. God said through His prophet, “…Wait for your God always.” (Hosea 12:6). Believe me when I say it pays off.

 

Grace and Blessings!

Jim McMillan