Justin Tucker
LHC Worship Pastor
Proverbs 16:9
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.”
When Michele and I got married we both knew that we were two very different people combining into one life together. Michele was a planner in every aspect of life and I had a tendency to be a little more “spur-of-the-moment”. I remember the look of horror on her face the day after we got married when I said,”Let’s leave for our honeymoon a day early and stay somewhere halfway before we check-in to our cabin tomorrow.” The idea of deviating from the prescribed plan and tossing in an extra set of clothes was mind-boggling for her, for me…it was a Sunday.
Isn’t that the way that our lives play out in so many different ways? We meticulously craft plans, with an envisioned outcome, with clarity and conviction. Yet, amidst our well-laid plans, there lies a truth echoed in the wisdom of Proverbs 16:9: while we may plan our course, it is the Lord who ultimately directs our steps.
As followers of Jesus, our journey isn’t just about pursuing our ambitions and desires, but about embracing His will for our lives. Matthew 16:24 calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him. This call to discipleship entails a radical surrender of our plans and ambitions at the feet of our Savior.
Being open-handed in our plans means giving up our perceived control and entrusting our futures into the hands of the One who knows us intimately and loves us unconditionally. It requires humility to acknowledge that His ways are higher than ours, and His plans far surpass our limited understanding.
When we submit our plans to God, we open ourselves to His perfect plans. Our hearts begin to listen to His voice, and our steps align with His perfect will. Though the journey may be uncertain and have unexpected turns, we find peace in knowing that every twist and turn is orchestrated by the loving hand of our Heavenly Father.
In the act of surrender, we discover freedom—a freedom from the burden of striving and the anxiety of uncertainty. We find rest in the assurance that God is faithful to fulfill His promises and lead us along paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
So, let’s approach each day with open hands and willing hearts, ready to submit our plans and desires to the Lord. When we begin surrendering to His guidance, we find the truest fulfillment and the abundant life He promises to those who follow Him faithfully.