We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. (Proverbs 16:9, NLT)
We talk a lot about routines in this game. How many practice swings do you take before each shot? Do you pick out a small target in the distance or use a clump of grass on the ground to line up? Do you tug at your hat or pull on your sleeve before pulling the trigger? My dad used to waggle the club so many times I wanted to scream! Just hit it!
The point is, we’re creatures of habit, especially in this game. Maybe you have a precise warm-up routine. Or a foursome you like to play with every Saturday.
It’s so easy to get so caught up in our routines, the to-do lists that we miss the assignments God had for us that day. I’ve returned from several work trips lately and questioned how I’d handled a few exchanges. Did I rush through that conversation? Did I square up to that person and give my undivided attention? Or was I so concerned with what they’d interrupted or what I had to do next that I missed the moment?
Perhaps that encounter was No. 1 on God’s assignment list for me that day.
Routines are important. They lead to consistency and success if you’re doing the right things. They bring calm and comfort in the midst of chaos.
But, sometimes, the routine or to-do list needs to be interrupted. Sometimes the interruptions are the assignments!
The acquaintance who flagged me over on the way to the range might need to talk to me more than I need to hit 25 balls before the round. The stranger on the first tee who spoiled my solo round might be my divine appointment.
Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (NLT)
Something powerful happens when we wake up each day and ask the Lord to guide our steps and ask Him to use us to advance His Kingdom.
We begin to look at interruptions or detours as opportunities.
Proverbs 16:9 tells us: “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” (NLT)
God is sovereign. Let’s submit to his will for who we talk to, how long we talk, and what we share. How can we go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20) if we don’t stop to talk?
PRAYER: Father God, we thank you for divine interruptions to our day. Please help us find the courage and the discipline to be intentional about stepping outside our comfortable routines and friend groups to make a connection.