“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. Isaiah 55:8

Upset plans, changes of schedule, and unexpected delays often cause frustration, disappointment, and anxiety.  When it seems that our carefully made plans are derailed, remember that God’s plans for our ultimate good are never disrupted. God does love you and wants you to thrive but what we think would be good for us often isn’t.

The Bible gives us examples of people whose lives seem like they took a wrong turn.  A young man named Joseph’s trajectory changed drastically when his brothers sold him into slavery. There is no good spin to put on deception and enslavement. Nonetheless, God’s hand guided Joseph and many years later, Joseph was able to tell his brothers that what they meant for harm, God intended for good (Genesis 50:20).

Also in the Bible is the story of God’s people who were rescued from slavery but then wandered through the desert for 40 years!  God reminded them of His presence, saying, I “…carried you, as a father carries his son, all the way you went” (Deuteronomy 1:31). God does not lose His way, nor does He lead us astray. At the end of this wandering time, God reminded their leader, “the Lord your God goes with you, he will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6).

If you are facing a circumstance that’s not of your choosing, take confidence that God is not aimless or unaware of your detour. If you can’t recognize His hand in this new path right away, have faith in His goodness.

 

Resource reading: Romans 8:38-39