Charting the Course

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” — Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

In our lives, we spend a lot of time making plans. If we were fortunate, we may have had a few young years when the adults made the plans. Then, in our teens, a new responsibility descends. By high school, we’re expected—brains still maturing—to decide what comes next: work, trade, college. We plan for careers, homes, and retirement. We plan, plan, and plan. But sometimes, as experience has taught us, our course is altered.

And there’s nothing wrong with that. Scripture affirms the wisdom of planning—when it’s done with humility and discernment. Proverbs 15:22 reminds us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Planning is part of faithful stewardship. Jesus himself speaks of planning in Luke 14:28, asking, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost?” 

Thoughtful preparation is not opposed to faith—it’s a companion to it. But even the best-laid plans must remain open to divine redirection.

Proverbs reminds us that while we plan our course, it is the Lord who establishes our steps. This isn’t a dismissal of planning—it’s a reminder that divine guidance is not a backup plan, but the true compass.

Writer and theologian C.S. Lewis planned to be a scholar, a rationalist, a man of intellect. Christianity was not on his itinerary. Yet through friendships, questions, and quiet nudges, God redirected his steps. Lewis didn’t abandon his intellect—God used it. But his course was transformed: from skeptic to apologist, from academic to spiritual guide. While few of us may become famous theologians, all of us are invited to let God reshape our path.

God doesn’t always reroute us dramatically. Sometimes, He simply adjusts our pace, opens a door we hadn’t seen, or closes one we were sure would lead somewhere.

So how do we ensure our plans follow God’s steps?

• Prayerful openness: Invite God into the planning room—not just after the plans fail, but before we begin.

• Scriptural grounding: Let God’s Word shape your values and priorities.

• Community discernment: Listen to wise voices, whether clergy, laity, or coworkers. God often speaks through others. We don’t have the only wisdom!

• Holy flexibility: Be willing to pivot. A closed door may be a divine redirection.

Planning is faithful. But trusting God with the outcome—that’s wisdom.

Gracious God, you are the author of our lives and the guide of our steps. Teach us to plan with purpose but walk with trust. When our paths shift, help us not to fear, but to follow. Establish our steps in your grace, that we may walk not only toward our goals, but toward your glory. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim