A Faith That Works When Life Doesn’t: Part 4Sample

You Can Still Make Plans During Difficult Times

There’s nothing wrong with planning, even during uncertain days. But if you want God’s blessing on your plans, it’s important to include him in your planning.

The book of James gives us a promise when it comes to planning. It says, "If you want to know what God wants you to do, ask him, and he will gladly tell you, for he is always ready to give a bountiful supply of wisdom to all who ask him" (James 1:5 TLB).

God promises he’ll give you wisdom as you plan. You just have to ask.

This is part of humbling yourself before God. You don’t have to wonder what he wants you to do with your life. You just have to pray about it! God is always ready to give you the wisdom you need to make good plans.

We’re living in a unique time, and you might feel like some areas of your life are still in limbo. You may feel like you can’t—or maybe shouldn’t—make any plans.

But, as you wonder how long the pandemic will impact your life—even after the pandemic comes to an end—you don't want to waste these weeks and months! It may feel like time stands still during hard times, but God’s purposes are always moving forward. I don’t want you to miss being part of them.

While there are many things you can't control, there are many things you can control. I challenge you to set aside an hour this week to prayerfully make a plan for the months ahead. It can be a plan for your spiritual growth, family, ministry, finances, or career. Whatever you want to talk to God about, make sure to seek God’s wisdom and set some goals as he directs you.

You can start by praying, “Lord, what do you want me to do for the rest of this year? What do you want me to do with my life? What is your will, God? Please give me your wisdom so that I can serve you well and fulfill my purpose.”

Talk It Over

• If you knew you would succeed, what would you commit to doing in faith?


• In what ways has the pandemic derailed your planning? What step can you take today to get your plans back on track?


• What do you think God wants you to accomplish during difficult seasons?

This devotional © 2021 by Rick Warren. All rights reserved. Used by permission.