(The following is the May 30 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read Acts 18 and pay close attention to verses 18-21.)

“Many plans are in a person’s heart, but the Lord’s decree will prevail” (Prov. 19:21). Christians should plan according to our understanding of God’s will for our lives. God’s sovereignty also demands that we acknowledge he sometimes has other plans for us.

We see this in Paul’s words at Ephesus when friends asked him to stay longer than he intended. “He declined, but he said farewell and added, ‘I’ll come back to you again, if God wills’” (v. 21). It’s a simple phrase – “if God wills” or “Lord willing” – but it reminds us that God ultimately controls our lives and knows what is best for us. In it, we hear an echo of Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, “Your will be done” (Matt. 26:42), and again from Acts 21:14: “The Lord’s will be done.”

Some may resist the idea that God controls aspects of our lives, but this understanding should comfort believers. How marvelous to know in a world often confusing, challenging, and painful that we are loved, guided, and protected by our heavenly Father. How wonderful it is to trust Christ to lead us in paths he chooses for our good and his glory when we are uncertain about which direction to take.

A pastor I regularly listen to adds “Lord willing” when discussing upcoming events. He humbly adds that caveat regarding his speaking engagements and other plans – never in a thoughtless, mechanical way, but in genuine submission to Christ. That is an admirable practice for believers to follow. Regularly saying it will remind us of God’s sovereignty and encourage us to trust him with life’s details.

Next Step:
Soon, when discussing plans with someone, add “Lord willing” or “if God wills” to your comments. Afterward, reflect on how doing so impacted you or the hearer. Consider continuing the practice.