We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. Proverbs 16:9.

Plan this, plan that; we all try to take charge of our schedules and plan accordingly. In and of itself that is admirable.

But when we try to control everything, and when we try to do so in our own strength, that is when we run into trouble. It can be frustrating to us when things don’t go according to our plan. Proverbs, however, informs us:

The Lord directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way? Proverbs 20:24.

Yet, we continue to try to do so. We must embrace the principle that, whoever truly desires to walk in obedience to God must be willing to cooperate with His time frame.

Furthermore, how we pray about situations in our lives makes a difference. Without realizing it, we may be making demands on the Lord to follow the schedule we’ve constructed based on our limited wisdom. Be reminded of what God said to Isaiah:

I am God, your God, who teaches you how to live right and well. I show you what to do, where to go. Isaiah 48:17.

So, if we believe God is who He says He is, and He is, how can surrendering to His way not be to our benefit?

Unlike us, the Lord knows all about our world and the details of every individual life: past, present, and future. He understands every motive, whereas we cannot even judge our own intentions on any consistent and accurate basis. God acts out of His love for His people, and He is sufficient to meet every need at just the right time.

The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand. Psalm 37:23-24.

And so, we declare, Psalm 31:14-15:

… I trust in you, Lord; I say, ‘You are my God. My times are in your hands; …’

Submitting to God’s timetable requires faith and courage. Believe in the goodness of His heart and His plans, and determine to wait until He moves you forward. Then, as we follow His schedule, we will experience the joy of seeing a display of His great glory.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

–by Don Brockway