“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” (NLT)

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” (NIV)

“People do their best making plans for their lives, but the Eternal guides each step.” (The Voice)

When I was a teenager, I lived, breathed, and recited some translation of this verse. I remember sharing it with my small group and writing it in my prayer journal. It offered me comfort when life was changing rapidly. My brothers were off at college and then back. My parents hosted bible study for young adults every Thursday. I was looking forward to college but had no idea where I should go or if we had money for it. My friends were not interested in church. Well, the church, you know how contentious that relationship was for me. This kernel of wisdom in the Book of Proverbs offered me hope. I could do what I felt like God was calling me to while resting in the truth that the Lord is with me. This passage does not condemn our plans or ask us to stay put, but this piece of truth reminds us that we do not go about life alone. In this new year, we can and should make some plans. We can do our best knowing that the Eternal Lord’s presence, the Holy Spirit, is there. My plan for this year is to read the through the Bible in a year. Please note that I have tried to do this numerous times and failed. However, I think the Lord is helping establish each step. I invite you to join me on this and every once in while I will host a coffee or fellowship or email thread to chat. I am following the Bible Project ‘s One Story That Leads to Jesus Plan. You can find some copies on the Welcome Table or copy this link. This is a judgment free attempt so join in whenever.

https://d1bsmz3sdihplr.cloudfront.net/media/Quarterlies_Other%20Downloads/2022_Reading_Plan.pdf

Attempting to make plans,

Pastor Joy