I’ve always been a planner. Heh, the day I met Carolyn in person she scrunched her nose at the day planner I carried with me. Remember, this was before cell phones where one could just touch a button for their whole schedule. It was where I kept my work schedule, the events for church, and our drama team ministry dates. I was a detailed person.
When I began writing, this habit spilled over into how I wrote. I kept journals of ideas and dreams that had potential to turn into something. As books began to be written, editing became detailed and meticulous. I had a plan. But through everything, there were events that would throw plans akilter.
I am one who does not like change. I know I will eventually be one of those grumpy old men with folded arms telling kids to get off my lawn. I’m set in my ways and heaven forbid that Gain laundry detergent goes off the market. I was already frustrated when the store stopped carrying the shampoo I use. I now have to order it though Amazon. I don’t like change. But I adapt.
How are we expected to deal with unexpected change in our life? Like the shampoo, I have learned to order early because there is a shipment delay. In my writing, I’ve learned that life is not always lined up in order. Meaning I am no longer a Planner, I’m now more of a Panster (writing as I go without an outline). And the day planner… heh. I do keep a schedule, but I don’t have the book, it’s in a handy-dandy phone app.
God has a plan for each of us. And sometimes it does require changes in our life. But those changes will always be for the better. Yeah, sometimes we will go dragging our feet, other times we will feel the release we have been waiting for. Expect the unexpected. One of the greatest thrills of life is fulfilling the plans God has for us. We gain that joy when we trust Him and follow that plan. We don’t need an outline, just trust.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Photo by Andrik Langfield on Unsplash
Moments for the Heart 