Your plans or God’s plans?

Luke 9:51-56

When James and John discovered that a Samaritan village would not receive Jesus, they were fully prepared to call down fire to consume the entire community! (vs 54) Putting myself in James’ or John’s shoes, I thought they might have felt that by sacrificing the lives of these villagers, they could probably have further the cause of the gospel, through their show of power. Or then again, it could be that they felt that these people have rejected the gospel, and that they probably don’t deserve the mercy that we deserve.

In any case, Jesus rebuked them (of course! And if you read on in acts 8, the Samarians later responded to the gospel!) God’s purpose had not been to destroy the people but to save them! Can you imagine what probably went through James’ and John’s minds as they see these people whom they almost destroyed, coming to rejoice in their salvation?! Thankfully they did not do anything that would have prevented Jesus from carrying out his plans!

Well, can you identify with these feelings too? I can. In fact, God’s really reminding us that His plans are far greater than ours, and even the best plans that we have for ourselves are nothing compared to the plans God has for us. Have you been short-changing God by living out your own plans rather than the plans He has for you?

You know, just yesterday when I was studying with a friend, I was just going through this enormous struggle whereby I had to make a decision whether to follow my heart and do as I please, or whether to do what’s right. I was really really desperate then, so I pleaded with God, that if He really didn’t want me to do that thing, then He’ll give me a clear sign. Just let it rain so heavily that I know it’s Him! (and you must understand, it was raining very heavily prior to that, and had stopped, and the sun was shining so brightly, no one would ever expect another downpour!)

Barely 5 min later, it just started pouring! So heavily in fact, and it lasted more than an hour! As I stared out of the window, I could only stare in awe and say, Yes Lord, that is You allright. I could have chosen to say, maybe it’s a coincidence? But I thank God that He stood by my side that even as I decided that I would only do the thing that pleases Him, and not me, I felt this struggle and burden just lifted up, and my heart felt heavy no longer! I felt so relieved that I didn’t just do what I felt like doing and ignored God’s sign for me! And I’m thankful coz I know that He sees it, and He honours it.

Well, to all… I thought the struggle was a lil personal, but felt like it could also encourage everyone who’s going through mountains in your lives now.
If it is part of God’s plans for you, He will see you through it. =)