It is natural for us to make plans when we either have duties to perform, days off, upcoming vacations, or doctor visits. We tend to get focused on those plans and do not consider that they might be interrupted or prevented altogether – by the Lord.

God tells us that we cannot know what will happen tomorrow. Most of the time, of course, we can expect things to go as hoped.

Every now and then, God will alter our plans. It may not be for our sake, but He may use a flat tire or sickness (or other unexpected event) to ensure that our path crosses that of someone He wants us to talk to about our Savior – whether for salvation or to help guide or comfort a believer.

This is where the phrase “if the Lord will” comes in. The Lord tells us “That ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that. But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil” (James 4:14,15).

We must remember that our time should be His, which means that unplanned changes will occur at times if we are seeking to do His will. Our response should be that of patience and we ought to begin to look for His direction and leadership during those times.

Anytime we start making plans we must give Him the right to make changes. His timing and plans are always right – whether we like it or not. In those times, patience and prayer are needed, along with thankfulness that He is using us.