This folksy saying made its way into my mind and vocabulary from a beloved High School teacher. It’s a great reminder that we may make our plans, but God is ultimately in control.
I need that reminder because I get frustrated when things go awry in my schedule. But it is good exercise for my soul to trust through the detours. Maybe He had a different plan altogether. Maybe I had a poor plan. Or maybe the creek just rose – the normal but sometimes chaotic forces that we don’t account for. But God knows where I need to be – and more importantly, what my heart needs as it gets there.
Even apostle Paul experienced changes in his plans – plans that would seem good and right to anyone. But God had a different path.
Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. Acts 16:6
Paul’s plan was redirected. But his mission wasn’t. He didn’t let the detour derail him but he just continued his calling where God led him.
Planning is good. I make a daily list (yes, I’m one of those). But God is teaching me that sometimes there are things needing to be done that aren’t on my list. And I’m learning to say yes to those "intrusions" even if it means MY list is not done at the end of the day. Maybe a swollen creek, or a jammed freeway, will keep me where He wants me today. My ears and eyes need to be open to His leading – focused on Him. And make every plan with the apt reminder, “Lord willing.”
