God’s Plan vs. My Plan: Surrendering Control to Trust His Way
Have you ever made a plan for your life, only for things to turn out completely different? Maybe you mapped out your career, relationships, or future, only to hit roadblocks, detours, or unexpected twists. When things don’t go as planned, it’s easy to feel frustrated, anxious, or even question God.
But what if God’s plan was always better—even when it doesn’t feel like it?
“For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for prosperity and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
— Jeremiah 29:11
God’s plans are higher, greater, and wiser than ours. Yet, surrendering control is one of the hardest things we can do. So, how do we let go of our own way and trust His instead?
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.)
1. The Illusion of Control
We like to think we’re in control. We plan, prepare, and strategize—hoping everything will go the way we expect. But the reality? We control very little.
“The mind of a person plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”
— Proverbs 16:9
Even the best plans can fall apart. Life is unpredictable, but God is never caught off guard. He sees the full picture—the moments we can’t yet understand. When we hold onto our own plans too tightly, we risk missing out on something greater.
Have you ever resisted God’s plan because it didn’t match what you wanted?
2. Why God’s Plan is Always Better
When we trust God’s plan, we’re not surrendering to uncertainty—we’re surrendering to His wisdom, love, and purpose. Here’s why His way is greater:
1. God Sees the Whole Picture
We see life moment by moment, but God sees the beginning, middle, and end. What feels like a delay or a disappointment might be divine protection or preparation.
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
2. God’s Plans Are for Our Good
God is not trying to withhold something from you—He is leading you toward His best. Even in setbacks, struggles, and waiting, He is working for your good.
Romans 8:28
“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.”
3. Surrender Leads to Peace
Trying to control everything leads to stress and frustration. But surrendering to God leads to peace—even when the path is unclear.
Philippians 4:6-7
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
3. How to Surrender Control to God Daily
Letting go of our own way isn’t easy, but here are practical steps to trust God more:
1. Release Your Plans in Prayer
Each day, ask God to align your desires with His will. Instead of saying, “God, bless my plans,” start saying, “God, lead me in Your plans.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
2. Stay Rooted in Scripture
God’s Word reminds us of His faithfulness. When you feel uncertain, go to His promises.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
3. Embrace the Unknown with Faith
God rarely reveals the full plan at once—He calls us to trust step by step. Obedience today prepares you for tomorrow.
Hebrews 11:1
“Now faith is the certainty of things hoped for, a proof of things not seen.”
Conclusion
The Power of Surrender
Surrender isn’t weakness—it’s the strongest act of faith. When we let go of our own way, we make room for God’s way, which is always greater.
What is one area in your life where you need to surrender control today?
If this encouraged you, share it with someone who needs a reminder to trust God’s plan! Let’s walk forward in faith together. 🙌✨
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.