NOT WHAT PLANNED

NOT WHAT I PLANNED

READ:
Psalm 37:1-8

Rest in the LORD.
-Psalm 37:7

This isn't the way I expected my life to be.  I wanted to marry at 19, have a half-dozen children, and settle into life as a wife and mother.  But instead I went to work, married in my forties, and never had children.  For a number of years I was hopeful that Psalm 37:4 might be for me a God-guaranteed promise:  "He shall give you the desires of your heart."

But God doesn't always "bring it to pass" (v.5), and unmet desires stir up occasional sadness.   Like mine, your life may have turned out differently than you planned.  A few thoughts from Psalm 37 may be helpful (even though the psalm is primarily about comparing ourselves to the wicked).

We learn from verse 4 that unfulfilled desires don't have to take the joy out of life.  As we get to know God's heart, He becomes our joy.

"Commit your way to the LORD" (v.5).  The word commit means "to roll."  Bible teacher Herbert Lockyear, Sr., says, "Roll they way upon the Lord,' as one who lays upon the shoulders of one stronger than himself a burden which he is not able to bear."

"Trust also in Him" (v.5). When we confidently entrust everything to God, we can "rest in the LORD" (v.7), for He is bringing about His best for our lives. -Anne Cetas

As I walk along life's pathway,
Though the way I cannot see,
I shall follow in His footsteps,
For He has a plan for me. - Thiesen
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A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD
directs his steps. - Proverbs 16:9

INSIGHT
We live in a fallen world with evil threats.  In this psalm David helps believers draw perspective on how to navigate in such an environment.  We are to call upon God for His help (vv. 1-6).  Despite enemies who attack us unjustly, we can be confident in our Lord (vv.7-16).  It is acceptable to plead for God's help when He seems to be an onlooker instead of a rescuer (vv. 17-25).  Though we may experience many ups and downs in our faith, God will ultimately vindicate the just (vv. 26-28).  In essence, David, who was not a stranger to enemies, tells us that God is our ultimate refuge.

Have a blessed day and weekend.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace