Our plans and God’s plans…
Becoming Winter
In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps.
Proverbs 16:9 ESV
On a lovely early October camping trip, I hiked to a stunning mountain lake which had aspens only just barely starting to turn color. It was a lovely mix of yellow and green leaves, but my imagination pictured the trees painted in vivid flame colors of yellows, oranges, and reds. I thought that if I could return in a week’s time, the leaves would be at peak, just as I pictured it in my mind. Unfortunately, that timeline wasn’t going to work out with my schedule, but, at the very end of October, I noticed that trail reviews said the fall colors were still at peak in that area. Impulsively, I asked a dear friend to make an overnight trip to hike that trail. She was up for it, so off we went. Now, a bit of snow had come, the temperatures were chilly, and wind was predicted. Yet with hearts full of eager anticipation, we went anyway…
Often in life, we make plans for future events; some as simple as a weekend hike or a dinner out, but other times, a life altering event such as a move, medical health decision, career change, or care decision for an elderly parent. While God wants us to pray for wisdom in making plans, to engage in life and be prepared, He also wants us to be flexible. We need to understand that He is ultimately in control of our lives and world and graciously accept His plans for us, even if they differ from our plans. You see, He loves us more than we love ourselves and knows what is best for us, always. Sometimes, it’s hard to let go of plans and expectations, but, when we look back, we often see God’s hand in the change of outcome.
In looking back at my hike on that autumn day, it wasn’t what my friend and I were expectantly hoping for. When we hiked the rather lonely trail, most of the aspens were leafless and the wind made it extremely cold. Yet it also was a day of incredible wild November beauty. Snow was sprinkled on mountaintops as sugar is sprinkled on cookies, glistening and exquisite. The bare aspens’ white trunks and branches contrasted magnificently with evergreen trees. The snow dusted landscape and grey skies, with just a patch of blue sky, hinted at coming winter. Best of all, it was a wonderful adventure shared with a dear friend, a special time of fellowship. Though my plan was different, God’s plan was best.