“Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.” (Proverbs 19:21 NIV)

Last night, I had a taste for some fish and hushpuppies, and my husband Kenya said he would go and get me some. The craving hit me at around 8:30. Since my favorite local seafood spot closes at 9 o’clock, Kenya called ahead to make sure it wasn’t too late to place an order.

The friendly lady who answered the phone assured him that as long as he arrived before closing time, they would happily take his order. Kenya made it there in time, but the door was locked. He called and told me the bad news, and I was bummed because I really wanted that fried fish. I don’t eat it often, but every once in a while, I treat myself.

When Kenya came back home carrying food, I was confused; I thought the place was closed. Well, it was. But there was a different seafood spot we had never tried, right up the street. Kenya decided to go there, and they were still open. They took his order, and he brought me fish and hushpuppies from the new restaurant. Even though it wasn’t my place of choice, when I tasted the food, it was even better (and cheaper!) than the other place I usually go to. It was a best-case scenario. And the next time I want some fish and hushpuppies, I bet you can guess where I’ll be going.

Although no one likes it when their plans fall apart, it’s always a wonderful surprise when something you didn’t plan comes together, isn’t it? In our walk of faith, sometimes, like it or not, our plans fall apart. In times like this, it’s completely natural to feel disappointment. But then we must remind ourselves that God’s purpose is greater—and better—than our plans.

In Isaiah 55:8-9, God says that His thoughts and ways are higher than ours. His wisdom and insight is way above ours. We think too low. And it takes prayer, Scripture, and fellowship with the Lord to help elevate our thinking. When we submit to God, He is able to conform our thoughts and align our heart with His will.

Maybe you have suffered a setback or disappointment. You thought things would turn out one way, but the outcome was the complete opposite. Though you may not understand, trust God anyway. Ask Him to elevate your perspective, so you can see things through eyes of faith.

Believe with all your heart that a different, better plan is right up the street. And when God reveals it, you will see that what He had in mind was superior to what you wanted in the first place. Friend, God has something good in store for you. Let go, and let Him have His way.

Now, let’s pray.

God, Your will is better than my way. Even when my plans don’t work out, I know You will cause all things to work together for my good in the end. By faith, I thank You for the better plan that will unfold. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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