Best Laid Plans

We all have plans and schemes for our lives. We have goals to achieve, people to meet, things to do, and lives to lead. But what if someone were to have a video of our entire lives before we lived it. And better yet, this person knew how we could make better choices and therefore have a better life. This person would have our best interests in mind as they told us what we should do. God is this person, and He does have the plan for the better life that He has in mind for us.

When Jesus met Saul on the road to Damascus, Saul responded, “‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.'” Acts 22:9-10 When we meet with God, we should expect to be told what we should do, not just tell God what we want. God has a plan for us, and His plans are good. If we listen and follow Him, we will live the life that He has designed for us.The best response that we can give God is, “What shall I do, Lord?”

Gifts of Kindness

Most gifts are given to benefit the receiver. But sometimes we can give a gift that also benefits the giver. For instance, a husband may give a gift to his wife that is related to her ability to cook something tasty for him. I don’t recommend this type of gift, but it does happen.

Proverbs 11:17 says, “A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.” Kindness benefits the giver and receiver. God’s kindness to us is freely given, so we should freely and generously offer kindness to other people.

The Fruit of Our Lives

It is true that our actions affect other people. If we get angry, we may damage relations, destroy property, and even affect outcomes. If we help another person in need, we may improve their ability to move forward in life. Often, we don’t consider the wider impact of the way we live our lives.

Proverbs 11:10 says, “When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices. and when the wicked perish there are shouts of gladness.” When we live righteously, even those around us benefit. We can improve the outlook for our families, neighborhood, cities, and nations by choosing to live the lives that God intended for us.

Hurry To The Right Place

Our lives are filled with rushing from one place to another and from one task to another. We have our jobs, kids events, sports, doctors’ appointments, social activities, family gatherings, and errands to attend. They are all calling our names constantly and we have to hurry to meet these demands.

Luke 19:5-6 says, “And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully.” Like Zacchaeus we should always be looking for Jesus to come and hurry to accept His invitation to stay with us. His invitation is the most important and one we must accept.

Listen to His Voice

When a familiar voice calls out our name, we stop and look. We want to hear what they have to say to us. God is constantly calling out our name. He wants to impart the wisdom and understanding that give us life and surround us with His favor. We must develop the habit of listening and become more familiar with His voice.

Proverbs 8:1, 35 says, “Does not wisdom call? Does not understanding raise her voice? For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD.” One of our greatest pursuits is the search for wisdom. And yet, wisdom and understanding can easily be found. God is calling out to us with His wisdom through His Word, His Son, and His creation. Listen to Him, and we receive life and His favor.