Way-ward Child
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“’For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the LORD.” (Isaiah 55:8)
Oh, how I can cling to that verse, don’t you? But why is it so often that God’s ways are not the way we think things should be? Our vision of the outcome of our fruitful efforts is often so different than what actually happens. It’s hard not to hang our head in disappointment and ask, “Why?”
Two examples of this happened to me just this week. I had spent six months setting up a women’s conference with an awesome speaker. We’d sent out announcements, flyers. Only a very small number of responses came in and even fewer of the women in my church stepped forward to help with the event – and we were hosting it!
I volunteered to be on the phone lines for the local Christian radio’s fundraiser. This station touches lives and have led many to Christ. Clearly they are doing God’s work on earth. Yet, they came nowhere near to the levels of donations needed to reach their operating costs—again.
We can only see the right now. Our eternal Father sees all of today and tomorrow, what is and what is to come. When we were little and on a road trip in the family station wagon, we trusted that our Dad knew where we were going and how to get us there. It did little good to whine when we saw a billboard for something and wanted to stop to see it. Dad knew the schedule, and how much gas it would take to get us where we needed to go. He had the budget firm in his mind and had plotted the journey, including little stops along the way that he knew we’d like to see.
As God’s children, we must trust that our Heavenly Father has a plan, even if we do not understand it. He knows the best way and how to get us where we need to go. It may not be our idea of the way things should turn out, but that’s okay. His way will prove to be the best time and again.
Heavenly Father God, we do not always understand Your purpose in our lives. We at times seem so sure to the outcome of our efforts for your glory, only to be disappointed because they do not turn out the way we’d hoped. Renew in our heart the hope that trusting in you as your children can bring. Instill in us the knowledge that You do have a plan and Your way is always the best. We pray this through your Son. Amen.
Question – What is your reaction when things do not turn out the way you wanted them to, even if it has been for God’s work?
5 Responses to “Way-ward Child”
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Cindy, I am so encouraged by your faith! Thank you for sharing your thoughts as you and your husband struggle through the downturn in the economy and trust God for His best for both of you. Please know that I will be praying for you, and I am thankful that you found these words helpful on your journey.
Hedy, I so agree with you: God’s way is not always the easiest way, but it is always the best way! Thank you for your words of wisdom and encouragement, and for sharing your thoughts on this devotional.
Lori, I so relate to you when you say that you had a problem of expecting the worst until you began submitting your life to God; now you have found peace in Him, and you are able to let go and let trust in His ways! Praise God for His goodness, and that He cares for us in every situation and circumstance! And thank you for posting your thoughts on this devotional!
Colleen, I surely understand your struggle, and I am thankful that you have found peace with your situation by surrendering to the sovereign will of God in your life. I know that He loves and cares for you unconditionally, and that He holds you tenderly in the palm of His hand. Responses such as yours bring such encouragement to us here at Power to Change! Thank you for posting!
“What do we do now?” has been the question my husband and I have been asking God. The downturn in the economy is crushing us and we’re trying our best. Our best to find jobs (not lucrative ones, just jobs to support our family) and to be frugal. Our best to stay hopeful and to trust God.
I like these devotions as once again you’ve encouraged me with God’s word, “’For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,’ declares the LORD.” Even though times are trying right now, I am reminded that God has a plan. Although I might not understand it, God has a plan! Albert Einstein once said, “I want to know God’s thoughts – the rest are mere details.” Yes!
I can`t remember where I heard it from but it sure helps me when I`m not happy with the way things have turned out.-Doing things in Gods timing/way isn`t always the easiest way but it`s always the best way! I`m so blessed,God has brought strong women to walk along side with me…to help with the plan He has assigned to me.Like I said”It`s not always the easiest way but it`s always the best way!
My reaction is sadness and disapointment at first. I have a little problem (?) of expecting the “worst” and l find I’ve been far less disappointed (but did I consider Gods plan? ) By submitting to Him, i go His way, not mine and I expect the “best ” now… Thank you for this gentle reminder to submit everything to Him and let go. Though life can be painful, God brings such peace and insight in all areas. He is so good.
i have been struggling for several month on an issue questioning why did this happen. i even went as far as the ask God what was he thinking. but this devotion has fliped the light on for me. i can find peace with my situation now. thanks