What Tomorrow Holds

My aunt and uncle have made it a consistent practice to end every discussion of future plans with, “Lord willing.” For example, “We’ll be at your house at 8, Lord willing.” Or “Can’t wait to see you on Christmas, Lord willing.” As a child, I thought this was pretty peculiar, but I have grown to appreciate the wisdom contained in those two closing words.

The wisdom of my aunt and uncle’s perspective actually comes straight from Scripture. James 4:13-17 tells us that we should acknowledge that the plans we make are only according to God’s will. It reinforces that we have no idea of what the future holds.

This week, people I know and care about have lost loved ones, undergone surgery, and dealt with major illness. The week prior, they may not have even imagined themselves facing these trials. Any plans they had previously made were put on hold to deal with the unexpected turn of events. And all this reminds us that for as much as we plan and prepare, we never know what awaits us.

As society emphasizes being in “control of your future” and “deciding your own destiny,” we sometimes lose perspective of what we can realistically control. This is why many become devastated when things don’t go as planned. They complain that things are “spiraling out of control.” Often, the only thing that is truly up to us to control is how we approach and react to the situations we face each day. Do we respond with faith or fear?

Our lives are in God’s hands. As Christians, we should be even more acutely aware of this truth. And we should rejoice in the fact that no matter what happens, our Lord and Savior will never leave us or forsake us. Things may not always go according to our plans, but can turn our situations over to the Lord, for His will to be done.

Looking forward to sharing with you again next week, Lord willing!