I tend to get stuck in my ways, so anything that diverts me from my
routines and plans can be very annoying. Worse yet, life’s diversions are
sometimes unsettling and painful. But God, who said, “My thoughts are not your
thoughts, nor are your ways My ways” (Isa. 55:8), knows that He often needs to
divert us in order to make more of our lives than we would have if we had stuck
to our original plans.
Think of Joseph. God diverted him to Egypt to prepare him to rescue
God’s chosen people from starvation. Or of Moses, who was diverted from the
luxurious lifestyle of Pharaoh’s house to meet God in the wilderness in
preparation to lead God’s people toward the Promised Land. Or of Joseph and
Mary to whom the angel announced the most significant diversion of all. Mary
would be with child, and this child would be called “Jesus, for He will save
His people from their sins” (Matt. 1:21). Joseph believed in the bigger purpose
that God had for him, surrendered to the diversion, and obediently “called His
name Jesus” (v.25). The rest is wonderful history!
We can trust God’s greater plans as He does His far better work in the
history of our lives.
Let God direct –or redirect – your steps. (RBC)
