God's Plan (Not Ours)

It's interesting how God is really and truly the one who has the master plan for our lives. Whatever seems rational, whatever seems right and good, that might not be exactly what He wants for us. Time and time again we see always in hindsight what He was doing, but in the present sometimes it is incredibly hard to see his providence in our lives. But sure enough, it's always working, sometimes obviously, sometimes behind the scenes.

In Cru there is a booklet called Knowing God Personally which is simply an easy aid to help and try and explain the Gospel and the Christian life to other people. The first point goes like this: God loves us and has a wonderful plan for our lives. I know it, but I don't always believe it. I hear those words, but don't often see it. 

It's nothing to get too caught up in, because it's just a fact. He is God and I am not. But he also extends us grace. I was reading through my bible today and in Job there is the memorable verse where the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth flat out says, "Where were you when I formed the foundations of the earth?" It's true. I wasn't anywhere and I wouldn't be anywhere better than that if it was not for Jesus Christ. Thus, when Christ encourages us to abide in Him, it's not always an easy entreaty, but they are words that we can trust. 

Even today, spaced out through a couple hours, I bumped into a roommate, had a short chat with an old roommate, and met two students from another campus ministry as they were going out to meet students on campus. They were these little interpersonal interactions, but with these interactions it was as if God was not going to let me alone and was really revealing that he is watching out for me. Yes, he does love me. Yes, he does have a plan for my life. 

I scratch my head. I question. I wonder why. And that's okay, but the bottom line is that I am rooted in Christ, connected with a community, but ultimately rooted in Him, abiding in his love and filled with his joy. I've heard it said that happiness is transient by joy comes in all circumstances, even the hard ones.

Recently I also started returning to some wonderful hymns from the people at Indelible Grace Music and the words and music in tandem have been equally stirring to me. They feel honest, real and truly beautiful. Listening to the words from the likes of John Newton and Martin Luther is really a treat. 

As always, all the glory to Him.