When God Changes Our Plans
A Temple Unbuilt
David, the renowned king and worship expert, had a grand vision – to build a magnificent temple in honor of God. He had written the book on worship, rescued the Ark of the Covenant, and was ready to dedicate his final years to this monumental project. His intentions were clear, his preparations thorough. Yet, surprisingly, the temple never came to be.
The Unexpected Detour
So, what went wrong? Did David lose his enthusiasm or the people their support? Not at all. The obstacle lay elsewhere. A divine conjunction intervened, halting David’s plans in their tracks. God declared that David, a man of war, was not fit to build the temple, and that his son Solomon would take on the task instead. David’s warrior temperament had cost him the privilege of building God’s house.
The “But God” Moments
We’ve all experienced similar disappointments. A man who waited patiently for the right spouse only to lose her in a tragic accident. A young couple who prepared a nursery, only to suffer a miscarriage. In each case, the phrase echoes: “I had intended… I had made preparations… But God…”
Responding to Disappointment
How do we react when God disrupts our well-laid plans? The man who lost his wife struggles with anger and bitterness, while the young couple copes better, staying active in their faith community. And David? When God changed his plans, he chose to trust, responding with a “yet God.” He acknowledged God’s sovereignty, remembering how far he had come – from humble shepherd to mighty king.
Trusting in God’s Sovereignty
When faced with the behemoth of disappointment, David chose to trust. His “but God” became a “yet God.” We can learn from his example. Instead of complaining, we can focus on the blessings we’ve received. When God interrupts our plans, we can respond with faith, trusting that His ways are higher than ours. Who’s to say our “but God” moments won’t become “yet God” triumphs?
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