Chaplain’s Chat: Make plans, but hold them lightly

Making plans for a new year is always fraught with speculation. It’s a good exercise but nobody really knows what is going to happen in the future. For example, in January 2020 I conducted an envisioning session for a not-for-profit group called 20-20 Vision. Shortly afterwards, COVID-19 hit and within three months our plans for the year had scuttled!

There is wisdom in making plans, but holding them lightly, particularly in the midst of
uncertain times, takes humility, faith and courage.

In James 4:13-15, the Bible offers wisdom for navigating life’s uncertainties with humility and faith. A summary of the verses could be: ‘don’t boast about your plans because you don’t know the future!’ Instead, depend on God.

The passage emphasises the importance of considering God’s will, urging us to acknowledge the fragility of life and the sovereignty of God.

These verses also invite us to reflect on the nature of our plans and ambitions. We often plan
almost every element of our lives, however James reminds us that we are not in control of
the future. Our efforts, though well-intentioned, must always be aligned with God’s will.

Acknowledging the uncertainty of life encourages a spirit of humility and dependence on
God. This recognition allows us to be open to change, flexible in our strategies, and aware that
success does not lie solely in our hands. As we engage the future and serve others, let us do so
trusting that God directs our paths and that our efforts are part of a bigger, divine purpose.

May 2025 be a blessed year for you.

 

REVEREND DAN LYONS, Director of Missional Culture & Leadership

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