As you think about your day, week, or even the next few years, it’s natural to set goals and dream big. Whether it’s launching a business, raising a family, writing a book, or traveling the world; most of us are wired to look ahead. But living well also means learning the balance of planning ahead and surrendering to God’s greater purpose.
Common Plans and Dreams
What are you hoping to accomplish?
- Start a business
- Raise a family
- Write a book
- Travel the world
- Start a ministry
- Volunteer in your community
- Plant a garden
- Pay off debt
All of these are meaningful pursuits. But as Proverbs 19:21 (NIV) reminds us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Planning Isn’t Wrong, But Surrender Is Key
Scripture encourages preparation and discipline. Galatians 6:7 tells us that we will reap what we sow. Planning is a wise and biblical principle. But at the same time, we must hold our plans loosely, knowing that only God sees the full picture.
Philippians 2:13 reassures us that “it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” Sometimes, the path we envision must change. God’s redirection is never for harm, it’s for our good and His glory.
Jesus Modeled True Surrender
The ultimate example of surrender is found in Jesus, who gave His life for our freedom. He laid down His own desires to fulfill God’s purpose, and because of that, everything changed. When we surrender our own plans, we follow in His footsteps and trust that God’s ways are higher than ours.
How to Surrender Your Plans to God
Try this simple exercise:
- Make a list of your current dreams and goals.
- Hold your hands open in front of you, literally or symbolically.
- Visualize giving each plan to God, one by one.
- Ask God to reveal which dreams He wants to return, and which new ones He may have for you.
It’s not about abandoning your dreams… it’s about inviting God to lead them.
Conclusion
There is peace in planning ahead and surrendering to the Lord. Trust Him with your timeline, your passions, and your purpose. He is faithful to guide you, grow you, and give you exactly what you need.
For more spiritual encouragement, check out our post on Patience in the Waiting: Trusting God’s Perfect Timing.
You can also explore daily Bible plans on the YouVersion Bible App.
FAQs
No. Planning is wise and encouraged in the Bible but we should always submit our plans to God’s will and timing.
It can be disappointing, but God often redirects us for our protection or growth. Trust that He has a better outcome in mind.
If you’re praying, listening for God’s direction, and open to change, you’re already practicing surrender. It’s about your heart posture, not perfection.
Yes. Surrender doesn’t mean passivity, it means faith-driven action and being willing to follow God’s lead if He shifts your path.
Regularly. Make it a habit to bring your goals before God in prayer: daily, weekly, and monthly as part of your spiritual rhythm.
