Other Plans

Daily Reading: Mark 5

Scripture Focus: And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him, and everyone marveled. (Mark 5.20)

Devotional Thought: "Lord, I don't understand.  It doesn't make sense."  This was my initial response to Jesus when he told me to "retire" from the pastorate and leave the people and place I loved.

When the demon-possessed man among the tombs was set free, he wanted to follow Jesus.  But Jesus would not let him.  Don’t you find that a bit odd?  Here was a brand new believer, one who had come from a very dark and sinful past.  If there was ever anyone who needed an intensive discipleship course, it was this man!  Going with Jesus made perfect sense.  Jesus had other plans for him: Go home.  Tell others.

We are not told the full results of the man’s testimony back home.  We know his changed life and testimony amazed people, but we don’t know if they believed in Jesus or not.  We know chiefly of his obedience: “He went away and began to proclaim... how much Jesus had done for him.”  In the same way, we are not responsible for the results of our testimonies.  We are only responsible for our obedience. 

Have you ever been subjected to those “other plans” of the Lord?  It’s hard to put aside your plans when they make so much sense, isn’t it?  But, be patient, friend.  Trust in God, and be obedient.  In due course you will understand.  He has greater dreams for you than you can imagine. 

Listen for the voice of Jesus today.  Where is he telling you to go?  What is he telling you to do?  Whom is he telling you to reach?  What are his "other plans" for you?

Prayer: Lord, I have plans for today, plans for my life.  I am determined that my plans, however, don't get in the way of your plans.  For your plans are to prosper me, to give me hope and a future.  I gladly follow these "other plans."  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 18.31-34

31 For who is God, but the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God?--

32 the God who equipped me with strength and made my way blameless.

33 He made my feet like the feet of a deer and set me secure on the heights.

34 He trains my hands for war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.