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Being F.A.T. and Liking It

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:2

This poetical verse is from the Proverbs of King Solomon. Dr. Henrietta Mears in her book, “What the Bible Is All About,” contrasts the book of Psalms and the book of Proverbs. She writes in Psalms we find Christians on their knees, in Proverbs we find them on their feet. Psalms are for the Christians devotions; Proverbs are for Christians’ walk. Psalms are for the prayer closet, Proverbs are for the work, home, and play.

When a team prepares for a mission trip we put this verse in an acronym... F.A.T. Flexible, adaptable and teachable. We make plans with our best intention to be helpful. After we arrive we often learn our best intentions are put aside for God’s prevailing purposes. We experience being F.A.T.

How many times did your plans not go as you planned? Interruptions can cause an unexpected change. You may plan to travel but work holds you back. You may plan to go to the playground but a friend stops by instead. You may plan a fun retirement but an illness changes the plan. Proverbs tells us that we need be flexible to the new direction God is taking us, adapting to the change and to look for what God is teaching us. God’s plans and purposes may not be understood all the time but He has our best interest at heart. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Prayer Focus: Father, I know Your plans are not always the plans I expect. Help me to be F.A.T. for Your purpose to prevail especially when it changes my future.

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