Don't Predetermine...Trust | Jeff Kemp

Do unwanted circumstances, situations and conversations upset you deeply? Consider what NFL quarterbacks need to learn about the risks of predetermining.

Game Plan:

“Look here, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit.” How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, “If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that.” Otherwise you are boasting about your own pretentious plans, and all such boasting is evil.” James 4:13:16, NLT

Time Out:

Do you anchor your expectations in cement? If you do, it magnifies your disappointment and resentment when expectations aren’t met.

Do you grab the reigns of control with intensity? If you do, there’s a pride and pretention problem that damages your faith, your relationships and your peace.

Just like quarterbacks need to read a defense, rather than guess or predetermine where to throw the ball, we need to let God guide our steps in life. Our mind and will may plan our ways, but it’s the Lord who directs our steps. Are you reading His signals, and welcoming His plans?

Do you anchor your expectations in cement? If you do, it magnifies your disappointment and resentment when expectations aren’t met.

Go Deep:

Decide this week to regularly test your thoughts. Ask yourself if your business, career, family or social plans are shaped by arrogance and presumption? When it comes to your plans and expectations, are prayer, listening and trusting God central to your approach? Make this your first thought and frequent prayer about everything : “IF THE LORD WILLS…”.