Not my plan.

A while ago, I caught myself on Saturday saying things like, “I’ll just do that tomorrow.” Laundry, cleaning, errands, whatever. But I wasn’t resting. So now Sundays are Sabbath – an intentional day of rest. I now do whatever brings me rest on Sunday. It’s been a good change for me.

So one Sunday afternoon, Tim and I had a planning session. We are entering a busy fall season. He has an EMT class once a week and a lot of homework that is due Sunday at midnight. We are both leading small groups, Tim’s class is on Monday and mine is on Tuesday. We both work, of course, and then there are other dinners and trips and fun to be had.

We went through all of the known events and sorted things. We decided when we were going to study, prepare for groups, what routines needed to shift. It was quite productive. Planning always rests my mind.

And then an hour or so later we got a phone call and everything went out the window. A crisis needed our immediate attention.

I don’t believe God laughs when we make plans, contrary to the popular quote.

Proverbs 16:9 We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.

Planning is good and helpful and necessary. But when something comes to disrupt, how should we react? It is helpful to know that God is still in control and whatever the ‘surprise’ is, did not surprise Him. Focus on the good you can see. Be thankful.

I thanked Him this crisis happened during 21 days of prayer with our church. My focus was an intentional hour with Him everyday. I thanked Him that it happened this year and not last year. We have had friends, but we knew we needed counsel and reached out immediately. We wouldn’t have done that before.

Then I saw benefits from the crisis itself – unexpected God moments, great conversations, renewed strength, refreshment. Answered prayers.

His timing. His glory. His purpose. Reminding myself that the Lord is still in control and He is still helping and guiding and leading brought me much comfort.

I may plan my days and try to put my ducks in a row. But when an unexpected chicken or fish or squirrel appears, I know where to put my focus and find peace.