Proverbs 19:21 – Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.
“Man plans; God laughs”. Many years ago I read an article that contained this Jewish proverb. It jarred me, as my first thoughts were, “Well, that isn’t very nice of God, cruel even!” The proverb sounds harsh, as if God delighted in messing up a well-ordered life. Much older now, I understand the message behind the proverb.
My first year of retirement hasn’t exactly gone as planned. I have been immersed in parent care, and while I’m grateful for the privilege of being retired during this season of my parents’ life, I have had to shed some notions about the relaxing ways I’d spend my days. I am trying to find a middle ground, but some days that just isn’t possible.
How many times in life are we blindsided by unanticipated events? It happens to us all – a health diagnosis, job loss, or financial challenge that just kicks us right in the gut. It is so easy to become angry or resentful, and blame it all on God.
I have come to realize that this Jewish proverb, and our focus verse from the book of Proverbs, are a reminder to us to be ever flexible. Life is full of unanticipated challenges. We can rant and rave about the unfairness of life, or accept God’s presence and love as he walks us through those challenges.
Dear Lord, may we be ever aware of life’s fragility. May we accept the twists and turns on our journey, and embrace your guiding presence through it all.
Blessings to you in the week ahead!
Diana
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