As I was reading my Bible, I am reminded that whatever plans I have, if it is not under God’s will, it will not prevail.

As what is said in Proverbs 16:1-4 (MSG),

I realized four things just reading this verse:

1. It will be useless to start planning and executing everything if we don’t put God first.

There will always come a time when we will feel so tired doing projects, expecting gains from our investments and constantly rendering overtime to work for our dreams. We are humans and we cannot do everything at once. What is more disappointing is if you’ve invested so much effort then at the end of the day, you’ll never get what you worked for. This is for this reason King Solomon wanted us to put God first in everything. Why? Because God has the last say, and if that is the case, we might want to plan with the person who has the last say in mind.

 
2. We dwell on the outer circumstances, but God focuses on our intentions. 

I always say yes to those that I see are right, or those that would benefit me. But then, He digs deep to our intentions. Why are you doing the things you do right now? For attention? For recognition? For things that are temporary? He knows. But He cares.

 
3. Putting God first in our plans will allow us to see God’s hand move on our behalf. 

This becomes an assurance for me that I don’t always have to worry if after all the planning and executing I’ve done, the results are not what I expect to happen. Nor will I worry too much on how to execute the plans I have determined in my heart. Why? Because I know, at the end of it all, God will put everything in place.

 
4. God has a purpose for the small and big things that happen, even for judgment.

Everything is planned for and has consequences. It could be that appointment you received to sell your house that gave you a blessing you haven’t expected. Or that phone call you received to visit your parents because that could be the last time you’ll see them. Whatever it may be, God is giving us an idea that we are all weaved together for His plans, for better or for worse.

As I remember in another verse:

Romans 8:28 (NIV)

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

 

We may have different likes and interests. My chosen career may be different from yours. But definitely, where your heart is, there your treasure will be as well. If you learn to put God as the caretaker of your treasure, I’m sure He will guard it, make it grow and shine more, and lastly, give glory to His name. Afterall, we are created for His glory. He created us to give Him glory in everything we do.

That, I believe, is the purpose of my life and yours.