Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. – Proverbs 27:1

Do you ever begin a day with your to-do list, expecting that everything will go according to plan? It usually doesn’t take long to rediscover that life is unpredictable. The circumstances of your day may or may not unfold in a way that resembles your hopes for productivity or accomplishment. During the pandemic earlier this decade, people’s plans were significantly disrupted, and everyone had to adapt to the mandates and restrictions they faced. While humans appear to prefer to plan their lives out, the Bible highlights an alternate way to live.

Proverbs 27 cautions against bragging about what is ahead. This passage is not saying that it is wrong to make a wise plan for the future. Instead, it is warning about the overconfidence or sense of control that comes when someone gets wrapped up in their own plans. The truth is that no one but God knows what will happen each day. It is dangerous when people become so committed to their plans that they feel like they are in control of their future.

Preacher Charles Spurgeon affirmed that the mystery of each day is a blessing, since “know[ing] the good might lead [you] to presumption, [and knowing] the evil might tempt [you] to despair.” While altered plans can be a frustration or even a shock to you, this is never the case for the Lord. He is always in control, always knows the future, and always knows exactly what needs to come next.

The next time you face altered plans, whether large or small, take a moment to stop and thank God for His plan that is always perfect. Pray for those in positions of authority in the nation, as they make plans on a daily basis. Ask the Lord to give them sound judgment and a heart that is more concerned with His plans than their own.