When Plans Fail: Learning to Trust God Through Disappointment
Many plans are in a person’s heart, but the advice of the Lord will stand.” — Proverbs 19:21 (NASB)
Introduction
We’ve all been there. The job we didn’t get. The relationship that didn’t work out. The door that slammed shut just when we thought it was finally opening.
Disappointment stings—especially when you believed you were doing the right thing. In these moments, it’s easy to question God’s timing, His goodness, or even His presence. But Scripture reveals a truth we often forget: God’s plan never fails—even when ours do.
Prayer:
Before we begin, if you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ be sure that you have privately named your sins to God the Father using 1 John 1:9 (If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness). You will then be in fellowship with God, filled with the Holy Spirit, and ready to learn Bible doctrine. If you have never personally believed in the Lord Jesus Christ as your savior, the issue is not naming your sins, but faith alone in Christ alone. John 3:36 (He who believes in the Son has eternal life; but he who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.)
The Problem: Disappointment Feels Like Defeat
Disappointment can create spiritual confusion. You may ask:
“Did I hear God wrong?”
“Did I miss His will?”
“Why would He let this happen?”
The problem is not the pain—pain is real. The problem is what disappointment tempts us to believe: that God is no longer in control, or worse, that He doesn’t care.
“Hope deferred makes the heart sick…” — Proverbs 13:12a (NASB)
The Biblical Solution: God’s Will Is Bigger Than Your Plans
Disappointment isn’t the end of your story—it’s often the beginning of redirection. God’s will operates on eternal principles, not emotional outcomes. He sees what we cannot, and sometimes He says “no” to protect, reroute, or refine us.
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” — Romans 8:28 (NASB)
Consider These Biblical Examples:
Joseph: Betrayed by his brothers, falsely imprisoned, forgotten. Yet, in Genesis 50:20, he said, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.”
Moses: Delayed for 40 years in the wilderness—but it was part of his preparation to lead Israel.
Paul: Prevented by the Spirit from going to Asia (Acts 16:6), then redirected to Macedonia—launching the gospel into Europe.
Their disappointment wasn’t divine failure—it was divine redirection.
When God Says “No,” He’s Still Saying “Trust Me”
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.” — Proverbs 3:5 (NASB)
God doesn’t owe us explanations, but He always offers us His presence. His wisdom is infinite (Psalm 147:5), His plan is flawless (Isaiah 55:8-9), and His timing is perfect (Ecclesiastes 3:11). When our plans collapse, He invites us to lean into Him—not ourselves.
Practical Application: How to Trust God Through Disappointment
1. Name the Disappointment—but Don’t Live There
Be honest with God about your pain. He’s not intimidated by your questions. But don’t stay stuck—bring it to Him in prayer.
2. Realign Your Expectations with God’s Will
Ask: “Was I trying to fit God into my plan, or was I truly surrendered to His?” Let go of outcomes and focus on obedience.
3. Stay in Fellowship and Intake Doctrine
You cannot navigate disappointment without the spiritual fuel of Bible doctrine. Be sure to name any known sins (1 John 1:9), then consistently intake truth under sound teaching.
4. Remember God’s Character
Study His attributes—faithfulness, omniscience, sovereignty. These truths anchor you when emotions shift.
Reflection Questions
What plan or expectation have I been holding onto more tightly than God?
In what ways has God redirected me that I now see as His grace?
Am I willing to trust God even when I don’t understand the “why”?
Closing Encouragement
Disappointment is not the death of purpose—it’s often the doorway to refinement, growth, and greater clarity. When your plans fall apart, it’s not because God failed—it’s because He’s building something greater.
“Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3 (NASB)
Allow time to study Bible doctrine and prayer and apply what you learn to your life, but you can’t do this alone. You need a pastor-teacher. I recommend the teachings from Pastor R.B. Thieme II and his son R.B. Thieme III.. We cannot know the Will of God for our lives without understanding who and what he is! Knowledge builds trust, and trust builds knowledge.