Lately, I have been getting really into planners. I have had an appreciation for them for a long time, but lately, I have had it on my heart to plan better. By this, I mean that God placed Proverbs 16:9 on my heart. I have started to become more aware of how I spend my time and work hard to make better use of my time in ways that He guides.
A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9 NKJV
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9 ESV
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. Proverbs 16:9 NIV
A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9 CSB
A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], But the Lord directs his steps and establishes them. Proverbs 16:9 AMP
How has Proverbs 16:9 helped me manage my time better?
God has been reminding me day after day that while I can fill up my planner with all kinds of things I want to do, ultimately He will be the One to determine what happens. I can plan to my heart’s content but His will be done no matter what I do or do not do, and He will provide all that is needed for His will to be done.
I’ve been noticing a better balance of tasks since I gave my planning over to God and let Him set my priorities. I’ve drastically reduced the tasks I really wanted to do that God indicated were not where I should focus. He has better things for me to spend my time doing.
In this, I have not only been able to start investing my time more effectively and efficiently, but He has given me time to rest, to have some fun, to spend with my family more, and focus better on the tasks that bring Him the most glory and honor.
How can you better plan your time?
This week I see a huge shift happening in my own schedule. It makes me wonder what would happen if more people gave God control of their plans, schedules, to-do lists so He can do what only He can. I wonder how many would find more satisfaction and less worry over what did and did not get done.
We are all called to prioritize God above all else, and through Proverbs 16:9 we see that even when we plan according to our own will, God’s will be done. Set your heart’s plans and desires on the Lord and He will make straight your paths for His glory and kingdom. He will provide the stepping stones, the resources, the time, the help. He is our Provider, our Way Maker, and our loving Heavenly Father.
Entrust your plans to His will and let Him lead the way each and every day.
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