photo credit: PeterThoeny via photopin cc
You can make many plans,
but the Lord’s purpose will prevail. – Proverbs 19:21
Something struck me about this verse this week. The word purpose. The dictionary defines purpose as an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.
In my life before illness, I had so many plans. It’s been a grief having to give them over, one at a time, to a new purpose.
I certainly never planned to not be able to cook for my family. It was never a plan to have to live right in town. My plans never included not being able to drive and travel. The plans I made, they slip right through my fingers like water. Drip by drop they are washing away.
But oh, when I stop to think about God’s purpose.
My plan might have been to live in a remote cabin in the wilderness. God purposes to give me a mansion in glory.
My plan was always to be very involved with my kids’ school. God’s purpose is to have me involved with my kids.
My plan included life on the road and retirement to constant travel and camping. God’s purpose includes roots and an appreciation for memories and small ventures.
Do you see the difference? I’m starting to.
Plans are temporal, fleeting, selfish, and short-sighted. Purpose… well, that’s solid, meaningful, God-oriented, and eternal.
I know right away which is the better way. God uses small words cause He knows sometimes I have trouble following along.
You can make many plans,
but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.
Thank God for that.
Mighty God, thank You for having more than just plans for me. Thank You for my purpose to carry me through as fickle dreams fall away. In Jesus’ Name, Amen…
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May God Bless You,
Shelly
Plans to purpose! Oh Shelly I sure needed this! Thank you!
Love you, Kelly! Heart Hugs <3
Shelly, your trust in God’s good plans and purposes in the midst of your hard circumstances is inspiring and encouraging!
Thank you, Elizabeth! I thank God for His patience and the strength He gives me. Heart Hugs, Shelly <3
when my daughter was at a Christian primary school she was in bed with me one early morning practicing her memory verse, which even I have never forgotten:
For these light afflictions are but for a moment, but are working for us an exceeding weight of glory.
With our earthly perspective the burdens are neither light nor the time ” but for a moment”…..but Jesus endured the cross for the JOY set before Him….and we also must endure…..but as with Jesus, the promise that ONE day it will all prove to have been worthwhile….is what keeps me hanging in there !
I am thankful your faith is so strong Shelly, with all that happens to YOU.
xx
Love you, Mary! I think you’ve inspired me!! Heart Hugs, Shelly <3
Hi Shelly,
Thank you for your post that touched me deeply… much to ponder on with our Lord.
Love you, Anita! <3 Heart Hugs