When Plans Go Awry

This is one thing that stumps me the most. I am really good at planning. I am even good with the follow-through. I usually have no problem addressing hard or unpleasant tasks with gusto, just to stroke them from my list. Detours, however, do not sit as well with me. 

How frustrating it is when the toddler takes a short or non-existent nap. Delays and inconveniences grate on me, which can be a common occurrence in a country where time is relative. Why should these things bother me? Because it messes with my plans, my rest, my desires for the day. 

I love reading about men and women of God who see detours as God changing their direction; those who value His plans above their own. What an ideal! How far I fall from that lofty state, when I wallow in frustration and self-pity.

I remember hearing a story about a man who was seeking God. The Lord impressed him to go to a certain place and wait for someone to tell him how he could be saved. Before long, a vehicle broke down in that very spot. A man, who just happened to be a travelling preacher, got out and started to check under the hood. The waiting man eagerly approached him. “Do you have a message for me?” he asked. The preacher looked startled. After a brief pause, he set the care of his vehicle aside and began to expound the gospel to the man. Much like Cornelius of old, this man was prepared and ready to receive the gospel. After visiting for a while, the preacher went back to his car. To his surprise, it started immediately. This had been a divine appointment, and he was so thankful he had not missed it! 

As in all things, moderation is called for. If it’s our habit to fly by the seat of our pants (or skirts😉) and procrastinate, that’s not a great place to be either. Somewhere in the middle, between rigid planning and “qué será será,” lies the sweet spot. A surrendering of my life, my day, to the Lord as I plan it out, leaving room for Him to change things as He will. Surely that is the way of the greatest peace and ultimate blessing.