Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

What’s the quote? We make plans and God laughs at them. That has truly been the story of my life lately.

Recently, the plans I thought I had for my life were completely turned upside down. At first, I was upset, sad, and disappointed. I felt as though life was unfair. I thought to myself, Why would God bring this opportunity into my life only to let things not work out? But then I reflected on the many times God redirected my life and how things ultimately turned out better.

Let’s start with the most recent testimony.

I wanted to start the process of buying a home in the summer of 2024. I felt it was time because I was tired of renting. A few years prior, I had made some bad financial decisions, and I didn’t think I would qualify for a loan through a traditional mortgage company. So, I thought I would need to go through a housing program instead. The program came with a lot of restrictions, and it ended up not being the best option for me at the time. Eventually, I stepped out on faith and contacted my bank. Lo and behold, I qualified for a loan. Not only that, but I was able to get the dream home I wanted with everything on my wish list. Redirection for my protection.

Back in 2020, when I was an Assistant Principal in Nashville, my principal at the time asked me if I would be interested in applying for his job because he was retiring and thought I was ready. I didn’t think I was ready, but I eventually became excited about the possibility of becoming a principal. I interviewed for the job and made it to the final round. I was so excited about this new opportunity. I thought it was finally my time and that my next step in leadership was right in front of me.

But guess what? I didn’t get the job.

I humbled myself and worked another year in the school under the new leader. The following year, I ended up getting a principalship in Arkansas. I never imagined I would move to the state, but it ended up being one of the best things for me. I was able to accomplish so much in my role in North Little Rock. God exceeded my expectations and did more than I could have ever asked or imagined. My time as a principal wasn’t without challenges, but it was definitely worth it. Redirection for my protection.

I could probably name at least five more times when the plans I had for my life did not work out the way I wanted them to, yet they ended up turning out even better than I imagined.

Friend, trust God even when you do not understand. He is always at work. He sees things we cannot see, and His redirection is often for our protection. He is in control and working all things together for your good.

I am excited about the new doors He is going to open for me and for so many around me. I trust the plans He has for my life because they are always far better than anything I could have imagined.