When we go on any trips, I like to have a plan with a list of places we should be exploring. Sometimes, I even get disappointed if we don’t see all the places I planned to explore. My husband and I recently went for a trip to Fort Bragg, and this was one of the trips where we didn’t plan a lot. Instead of trying to come up with a big list of things to do, I had a few places in mind but tried to be more flexible and go with the flow.
Once I stopped focusing on checking all the boxes on the list of places we should be exploring, it felt more peaceful. It took the pressure off of me and helped me to enjoy the moment and be curious about what may unfold. Some days during our trip, we just relaxed and didn’t do much but got much-needed rest. Also, there were days we were driving to one destination but ended up stopping at other beautiful places along the way, even though that was not in our initial plan. This reminded me of how we can also do that with God. We can come up with our plan and hold on to it so tightly and miss out on all that God has for us. Some of the beautiful things can unfold when we let God in our plans. According to Proverbs 16:1, “We may make our plans, but God has the last word” (Good News Translation).
Planning is good, but it’s best to hold on to our plans loosely so we are open to what God wants to do. One of my recent motto in life is to ‘Go with the flow’ and I want to expand that further to say ‘Go where the Spirit leads’. According to Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight” (New American Standard Bible).
When we are led by the Spirit, even if the road feels bumpy or our life feels messy, we can still enjoy the ride, knowing God is in control. We can rest, knowing that it will all work out for our good and for His glory.
“You call me out upon the waters
The great unknown where feet may fail
And there I find You in the mystery
In oceans deep my faith will stand
Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders
Let me walk upon the waters
Wherever You would call me
Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander
And my faith will be made stronger
In the presence of my Savior”
– Hillsong United
