For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord.
They are plans for good and not disaster,
to give you a future and a hope.
– Jeremiah 29:10-11 (New Living Translation)

Years ago I heard a newly appointed pastor announce to his congregation that he had a plan to make everybody happy. He went on to say that many were happy that he had come and that many others would be happy when he left. While we get a good laugh from this, we know it’s all too true not only for pastors, but also for coaches. Most coaches are planners. We create five-year plans to establish our program, we create game plans for each opponent and we draw up plans for special plays in special situations. From my earliest days of coaching, I’ve heard that failing to plan is planning to fail. Well, what happens when our plans don’t work out exactly like we thought they would? What if we’re told we only have three years to implement a five year plan? What if the fan base or decision makers turn against us? What do we do when or plans don’t work out and we are told that our services are no longer needed?

Despite all our planning, God is the only one who knows the future. Even though we think we’re in control, we’re not. The good news is that God’s agenda is way better than anything we could ever hope for or imagine. I wonder what Noah was planning before God told him to build a boat? I bet Moses wasn’t planning on bringing the Ten Commandments down off the mountain when he was making the climb up. Surely, the Samaritan woman wasn’t planning to meet Jesus when she went to get water from the well. I’m convinced that God wants us to prepare and make plans. But, I’m just as convinced that He wants us to be open to His plans. What initially seems like a train-wreck, could be the beginning of God’s new and amazing plan created just for you.

Heavenly Father, help me to see that my plans may not be your plans. Teach me Lord, that great things can come from disappointment and hardship. Give me the strength to keep my eyes focused on You. Amen.