July 11th: Open Hands, Open Heart

This week, I’ve been reminded how much I love having a plan—and how often God disrupts it.

I like to know what’s coming next. I like routine. I actually love it…but sometimes it can get the best of me. I like having the next step mapped out. But the truth is…life rarely sticks to our plans. And sometimes, that’s the best thing that can happen to us.

Some of the sweetest joys in my life so far were things I never saw coming. Friendships that started in the most unlikely places. Opportunities I never thought I’d get. Moments of laughter and peace right in the middle of chaos.

And I can’t take credit for any of it…it’s all God.

It made me think of Isaiah 43:19: “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

I love that. God is in the business of doing new things. But here’s the challenge: you can’t see the new thing if you’re clutching the old thing too tightly.

We miss out on unexpected joy when we’re too busy resisting unexpected change. We miss out on what God wants to do because we’re so focused on what we thought He should do.

So here’s the question I’ve been asking myself:
Am I willing to loosen my grip on my own plan so I can receive whatever He has for me?

What if today—through a change you didn’t plan—God is opening a door to joy you couldn’t have imagined? What if this season of uncertainty is actually the setup for the season you’ve been praying for?

God’s ways are better. His timing is better. And His joy is deeper!!

So hold your plans with open hands. Live with an open heart. And don’t be afraid to let Him surprise you.

I hope you all have a great day, and God bless.

-Brady Baker