“Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (Prov. 19:19)

God is sovereign. He is in control of everything. Everything in creation moves at His direction, yet at the same time He gives us free will, that we may love Him according to our own heart. What a beautiful mystery!

This verse, and the many, many others in the Bible declaring God’s providence over all, should give us peace and comfort. Why? Because it means that even when we make mistakes, even when we have ungodly and wicked plans or do ungodly and wicked things, ultimately it’s HIS purpose that will prevail. In His sovereign power, He can take any messed up situation, and use it to ensure that good comes out of it! What an amazing promise!

“The Lord works out everything for his own ends- even the wicked for a day of disaster.” (Prov. 16:4)

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” (Prov. 16:19)

Some people will read these verses and refuse to believe that God is in control. It’s because one of the sins of our flesh is pride, and our desire to control everything that happens in our life. Many people don’t want anyone directing their life, except themselves.

Knowing that we live in a fallen world and that all men are sinners and fall short of God’s glory, I wouldn’t want any plans conceived by man to reign supreme, but only the purposes of God. Seriously, think about how terrifying it would be if God one day said… “Okay, you want to be in control? Fine, I will leave you to your own devices.” (Meaning He will allow us to live by our own control, rules, and standards, with no help, influence, or interference from Him.) That individual’s life, and that resulting world, would be hell (i.e. eternal separation from God) on earth!

For those of us who are children of God, we are not to be upset or bitter that the Lord’s purpose prevails over our own plans. Remember that He works for the GOOD of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28). If we trust that God is a good and loving God, then we are not to fear nor avoid the road He has for our life, but rather, run towards it and fully embrace it!

When we are able to let go of control and follow the Lord wholeheartedly, He will do miracles in our lives that will bring Him glory and draw others to Jesus! Amen!

[From December 19, 2018]