Discovering the Power of Agape Love

Chapter 2: Plans and Decisions

CHAPTER 2: Plans and Decisions
Music: Good Plans by Red Rocks Worship

Main Verse: Proverbs 16:9 ESV
[9] The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.

Everyone of us has our own unique plans and decisions in life. It is also crucial and unpredictable. Some of us have a short term preparation or for others, they choose the long term plans. We are strict and want it perfect. Nevertheless, along our journey trials tested us and not all the time it was not aligned to our plans. It destroys the perfect plans that we created. No one knows the future, what we can do is to focus on our present.

I know the only Creator can give a true plan and fix my decisions in my life. I admit, most of the time I try to do it on my own. But later on, I see that all of it was nonsense. It is not happening, every moment it causes failures and disappointments. (Proverbs 19:21)

God already prepares everything, if we just rely on Him, all things will be amazing and we can see greater things. It is big than what we prepare for ourselves.

When I became Christian, I found myself experiencing hardship in life. It is more difficult than before, but then I surrender all my battle to Him. But my mind and actions always fight, it becomes unbalanced. My mind tells, "What happened to you? You're weak! I am here with you. I'm the one who thinks for you. We have plans and decisions already." While my actions, saying "You can't. You need Him, you need God to handle your plans and decisions."

I take a long breath. I don't know what to do, then I realized I am battling with myself. I come to Him, pray about all the thoughts and feelings that I have. He answered through verse, Philippians 4:6-7 ESV do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. [7] And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

After knowing this passage, God allowed me to understand my situation little by little. He wants me to accept the life that he has for me is only for me and the best, besides His plans have peace after all. That moment melted my heart, His words made me calm. I am not alone, I'm just scared and worried a lot. God has been with me since the day I was born, when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior there are changes, yet, the plans will never be changed- I will be with Him. Until, I walk with Him.

But honestly, there are times I questioned everything because of the unexpected scenarios that I need to face. I tell you something, I want to have a family that serves Him. I know my family isn't perfect, but I know my parents are god-fearing, but it will not make sense because they are just based on their ancestors and beliefs.But none of them believe why I choose being a Born Again Christian. To my father, it is a big deal. Acceptance is not found in our home.

He always said to me, "Stop going to your Born Again Christian, go to Catholic." I remain silent and pray to God soon they know why this is my decision. God knows my heart, He knows why I want to be there. Even my parents are the hindrances. Still, I loved them and I know God has a purpose and great plans for them.

Later on, the fire inside of me became weak. The plans and decisions that God gave have changed- I want to have my own and much easier life. I do it on my own without asking God. I failed. I don't know what, where and how to process anything afterwards. I'm clueless again. The hope that I had, was gone. Even so, God holds me.

One night, I was lying on my bed. Until I fall asleep.

I hear a voice. It was big and deep, there was no face or shadow but only a man's voice. He says, "My child, remember this. Let me guide you. Just trust me always and have faith with me. I know it will take a long time, but please be patient. Worrying makes you undecided, and will lead you to give up. Stop that, trust and wait. I want you to become stronger, and have a great life. Sooner, you will understand why I allow obstacles in your life."

I am speechless, but I feel His hand touch head. I close my eyes then I pray. "Lord, is that you? How can I be sure that everything will be fine? I know you are with me but now I don't know what to do. But I want to trust you more. Help me..." I don't even see Him. I AM proud that I know that voice is coming from my Lord.

Suddenly, heavy tears flowed onto my face.

"Lord?"

I woke up, holding my breath. I can't explain my feelings right now. I look down and see my bible at the side of my table. I open it because sometimes there is an answer through His words. Until I see the book of 1 Peter 5:7 saying, Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

I smiled joyfully with slight tears in my face. I wiped it and whispered. "Oh Lord, you are awesome. Thank you for this message of yours!"

After that, I continue praying and embrace His words. After praying for a couple of minutes, I remember one of my best life verses from the book of Proverbs 16:3, Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

"I will trust you Lord, I will trust my plans on you. I know everything will be fine." I said firmly.

***