God's Plans Are Greater, Even If I Don't Believe It

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.
Proverbs 16:9 NIV

I’m sure I’ve read this verse before. I have a tendency to read and not retain, well, at least not EVERYTHING I read. Then, when I go back and reread it, it’s like I’ve read it for the first time! Anyways…

The I in VICTORY stands for “Identify Character Defects.” Sounds fun, doesn’t it?

I imagine one of the first things you thought of doing this morning was some good ole fashioned SELF EXAMINATION! Not.

It’s not fun. It’s necessary, but it’s not fun. There’s nothing exciting about admitting a struggle or getting honest about a hurt. Not at first. Talking about this stuff, admitting it, confessing it (however you want to say it) is what eventually leads to discovering freedom FROM it. THAT part is fun and exciting! So, back to the verse above…

Each and every one of us has a plan for our own life. We’ve got plans and dreams and aspirations—things we’d like to do and see and accomplish in this life. There shouldn’t be much argument there. What I’d like to suggest is that where we tend to disagree with one another is (insert drum roll here), our plans, this includes you and I, usually aren’t that great. In fact, I’d like to suggest our plans typically lead to bad decisions, broken relationships, and counseling. Just sayin’.

In his heart a man plans his course…

Determined to reach the END, we’ll justify some nasty MEANS. Mine is probably not yours and yours is probably not mine, but let’s agree they aren’t good. What IS good, are GOD’s PLANS for our lives.

…but the LORD determines his steps.

God’s plans NEVER change! From the day you were born…wait, NO… BEFORE you were born, God had plans for you to be a catalyst for change in this world! You and I have plans, maybe even GOOD plans, but God’s plans are GREATER! We plot and plan and scheme in our hearts, but God has already laid the path before us to reach the BEST POSSIBLE OUTCOME in our lives!

What does all this have to do with identifying character defects?
You and I will NEVER experience God’s BEST without first getting rid of our WORST.

What’ll it be?

Reflect:

• What secret have you been holding on to?
• What character defect(s) is holding you back?
• What steps can you take today to get rid of your junk?
• Who can you call and trust to hold you accountable?