Interrupted Plans

I don’t get frustrated often. When I do, it’s usually because my plans are being messed up. Sometimes it’s because of traffic, sometimes because others aren’t on the same page as I am and sometimes it’s because of random things happening that keep me from doing what I’ve planned to do. While I’m getting upset at the situation or other people, my wife is good about reminding me that God may be behind the scenes working. She’ll ask, “Could it be that God is protecting us from something?” That’s my gentle reminder to take a breath and quit trying to get us back on schedule or to force the plans to happen despite everything conspiring against me to prevent them.

In Matthew 1, Joseph had plans to marry Mary and for their lives. Those plans were interrupted when Mary told him she was pregnant. The Bible says Joseph always did what was right and made plans to protect Mary from public humiliation and possible stoning. While he was making these plans, he was interrupted by an angel confirming Mary’s story. The angel told him she would have a son and they were to name Him Jesus because He would save us from our sins. Then in verse 22 the angel concluded by quoting Isaiah, “A virgin will become pregnant and have a son, and he will be called Immanuel” (which means, “God is with us”)” (GNT). Joseph then accepted God’s plan and married her.

As I think about the phrase, “God is with us,” I think about the time the God was transitioning Joshua and the Israelites from the wilderness to the Promised Land. There was uncertainty, walled cities and giants ahead that I’m sure he didn’t feel prepared for. In Joshua 1:9 God said, “This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (NLT). I don’t know what plans of yours have been interrupted, changed or thwarted, but I know God is with you. Don’t be afraid or discouraged about the uncertainty of the future. God has never left you, nor will He forsake you. Though we may not understand His plan, we can know that He is with us as we navigate the changes. Be strong and courageous as you face the unknown when your plans get interrupted. You can know that He will work everything out for your good.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash