Retirement Rocks: A 14-Day Reading Plan for All That Free TimeChikamu

"I've got it all mapped out." Joe pulled out the page he'd just printed and showed it to his wife, Teresa. “A five-year-plan, a ten-year-plan, and even a twenty-year-plan.”

“How long do you think we’re going to live, anyway?” Teresa asked and then chuckled. “And why are we planning out all our days? I haven’t even decided what I’m going to make for dinner tonight and you’ve got a plan for twenty years from now?”

“I just think it’s good to be prepared, honey.”

“Well sure, but if everything is laid out on paper, what happens if God takes us in a different direction? What if we randomly decide to move to Hawaii or Alaska?”

“Don’t be silly.” With the wave of a hand Joe dismissed her foolish ideas. He knew exactly where they were going to live and had even figured out all their expenses in advance. Didn’t she see this was best; to be prepared?

“Joe, I’m not saying you’re obsessed.” She paused to clear her throat. “I’m just saying that we need to trust God to handle our future. We don’t have to map out every single detail. Where’s your sense of adventure, honey? I want to have the freedom to shift gears if He nudges us to do so.”

Maybe Teresa had a point! Planning ahead is great, but don’t ever forget, God already sees well into the future and has it all under control. He wants you to be prepared for the years ahead, so having a strategy is great. But don’t forget to let go of the reins just enough to allow Him to move you in a different direction, should the need arise. He wants you to rediscover the kind of relationship with Him that allows you to fully hope, fully trust, and fully anticipate great things ahead.

Are you ready, friend? Your plans look great! But God’s? They look even better!

Lord, I get it! You want me to be prepared for this season of my life, but You also want me to remember who’s really in charge. As I learn to trust You more, I’ll release this tight-fisted grip on my plans and give You the freedom to lead me as You see fit. Amen.