MAY 14 - Planned, But Not Perfect

3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:1; 2 Corinthians 1–2

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“The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.” — Proverbs 16:1

“For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory.” — 2 Corinthians 1:20

“Now if anyone has caused pain… you should rather turn to forgive and comfort him, or he may be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.” — 2 Corinthians 2:5,7

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Have you ever made a plan that totally fell apart? Maybe you studied hard for a test and still didn’t get the grade you hoped for. Or you planned a big moment—like saying something important to a friend—and it didn’t come out right. That can be so frustrating.

But Proverbs 16:1 reminds us that even when we make plans, it’s God who ultimately directs what happens. And in 2 Corinthians 1, Paul teaches that all of God's promises are trustworthy—even when things go sideways. In chapter 2, he also reminds us that when others mess up, forgiveness matters just as much as planning ahead.

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THINK ABOUT IT

1. God’s Direction Over Our Plans: What’s something you've planned recently? Did it go as expected? How might trusting God more with your plans give you peace, even when things change?

2. God’s Promises Are Steady: When Paul says that all of God's promises are “Yes” in Christ, what promise from God do you need to cling to today?

3. Grace for Others: Paul encourages forgiveness instead of piling on guilt. Is there someone you might need to show compassion to, even if they’ve hurt you?

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BOTTOM LINE

You can make plans—and you should—but trust that God sees the whole picture. His promises never fail, and His grace isn’t just for you; it’s for you to share with others too.

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PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that while I can make plans, You are the one who guides the outcome. Help me trust in Your promises, even when life doesn’t go the way I expect. Teach me to be gracious and forgiving, just like You are with me. Let my plans be surrendered to You and my heart always open to Your direction. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.