We’ve all been there—making plans, mapping out our dreams, and setting our sights on a future we believe is best. Whether it’s career ambitions, relationships, or personal goals, we often hold tightly to our vision of success. But what happens when our carefully crafted plans clash with God’s divine blueprint? And what does it look like when we surrender our will and wait patiently for His timing?
Let’s dive into the contrast between our plans and God’s, through the lens of Scripture, faith, and real transformation.
When Our Plans Clash with God’s Will
“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” – Proverbs 14:12 (ESV)
Sometimes, our plans are not inherently bad—they may even seem wise or noble. But if they’re not aligned with God’s will, they can lead us away from His purpose. Jonah is a perfect example. He had a plan to flee from God’s calling, boarding a ship to Tarshish instead of going to Nineveh (Jonah 1:1–3). But God had a greater purpose. The result of Jonah’s detour? A storm, a shipwreck, and a lesson learned in the belly of a great fish.
When we go against God’s plan, we often find ourselves in frustration, anxiety, and confusion. Doors close. Things don’t go as expected. And while it may feel like punishment, it’s actually grace—God lovingly redirecting us from something less to something greater.
The Beauty in Waiting on God’s Plan
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles…” – Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)
Waiting is one of the hardest disciplines of the Christian walk. We want results now. But God often uses seasons of waiting to refine us, develop our character, and prepare us for the blessings ahead.
Consider Joseph—sold into slavery, falsely accused, and imprisoned. For years, it looked like his dream (literally given by God) would never come to pass. Yet, because Joseph waited faithfully, God exalted him to a position of influence in Egypt (Genesis 41), using him to save nations during a famine.
Waiting on God’s plan brings peace, strength, and clarity. It often saves us from premature decisions, wrong relationships, and emotional burnout. More importantly, it deepens our trust in God.
God’s Ability to Change Hearts and Minds
“And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you.” – Ezekiel 36:26 (ESV)
One of the most profound ways God demonstrates His sovereignty is by transforming our desires. He doesn’t just shut doors—He changes what we want behind them.
Have you ever had a dream you chased relentlessly, only to later thank God it never worked out? That’s divine intervention. God often softens our hearts to release what we thought we wanted so we can embrace what He knows we need.
The apostle Paul had plans to persecute Christians. But on the road to Damascus, God completely rerouted his life and changed his heart (Acts 9). Paul’s transformed desires aligned with God’s will, leading him to become one of the most influential leaders in church history.
A Divine Conclusion
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
Even when we can’t see the whole picture, we can trust the One who holds the brush. God’s plans are higher, wiser, and filled with eternal purpose. When we yield our plans, wait patiently, and allow Him to shape our hearts, we discover a life far more beautiful than anything we could script.
So today, hold your dreams with open hands. Trust that if God changes your direction, it’s for your protection. And remember: the safest, most fulfilling place to be is always in the center of His will.
Troy P Zehnder 