Looking Forward

by Jane Josephs

“In their hearts human beings plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” –Proverbs 16:9

In my last devotion I looked back to the days of the COVID pandemic. But today I’m looking forward and making plans for a short visit with my daughter and granddaughter from Chicago. And in my planning, I’m remembering a plaque a friend gave me years ago that said: “Man plans; God laughs.”

For some reason I’ve always thought that saying inferred that God was laughing at us; that He was sort of mocking us for thinking we are in control of our lives. And maybe on some level we’ve been conditioned to think that’s true. After all, who doesn’t know these words by the Scottish poet Robert Burns? “The best laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”

But ignoring that for now, today I’m looking forward, and turning to Scripture to see just what God really has to say about making plans. And you guessed it, God is very encouraging and supportive. In Proverbs 21:5a He assures us: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit…” And most of us can quote those famous words spoken by God through the prophet Jeremiah: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’” declares the Lord, “‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jer. 29:11). God makes plans; we should too.

But I think I like this little line best from Proverbs 14:22b: “But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.” So instead of thinking of God laughing at me, I am imagining that He is laughing with me, happy that a few of my family are about to visit. And glad to help me with planning the menus, the transportation, the entertainment, the sleeping arrangements…come to think of it, I’d better get busy with the house cleaning first! LOL!

Dear Lord, Give us eyes to see the plans You have for us, and help us choose wisely when making our own plans. Let all we say and do bring honor and glory to Your name. Amen.