Let me say this right away: I’m still learning this.

There have been many moments in my life when what I wanted made complete sense—on paper, in prayer, and even in principle. I pursued good things with good intentions. But even then, I’ve found myself in situations where my plans didn’t align with God’s will. And you know what I’ve learned? When that happens, it’s not God’s will that needs adjusting—it’s mine.

I used to think that if I planned carefully, worked diligently, and even prayed faithfully, things would go the way I expected. But life—and more importantly, God—has shown me something better: what I think is best isn’t always what’s right. And God, in His kindness, doesn’t always give me what I want. He gives me what I need.

There were doors I begged God to open, opportunities I believed were perfect, relationships I prayed would work out. When they didn’t, I wrestled with disappointment. I asked why. I doubted my decisions. I even questioned if I had enough faith. But over time, I began to understand that God was not withholding good things—He was protecting me, redirecting me, growing me.

Isaiah 55:8–9 reminds us:

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
— Isaiah 55:8–9, ESV

It’s one of those verses that humbles you every time. And the longer I walk with the Lord, the more I’m convinced: His ways are not just higher—they’re better. Even when they don’t make sense right away. Even when they disrupt your momentum or mess with your timeline.

I’ve had plans that seemed like no-brainers. Investments that looked promising. Partnerships that aligned with my vision. But sometimes, the door slammed shut. Or the “yes” turned into a clear “no.” And in those moments, I had a choice: either cling to my own understanding—or yield to God’s.

That’s not always easy for people like us—especially when we value strategy, ambition, and execution. We’re trained to set goals, work hard, and push through. And while there’s wisdom in diligence, there’s even greater wisdom in surrender.

Paul says it beautifully in Romans 12:2:

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
— Romans 12:2, ESV

God’s will isn’t just a “better option”—it’s perfect. That doesn’t mean it’s always comfortable. But it’s always complete. His plans shape not only your circumstances—but also your character.

When our plans fall apart or stall, we’re tempted to think we’ve failed—or worse, that God has forgotten us. But what if it’s not failure at all? What if it’s formation? What if the pause is a divine setup for something greater?

I’ve learned that surrendering to God doesn’t mean giving up our dreams—it means placing them in better hands. It means walking forward with faith and flexibility. Holding our plans loosely, but holding on to God tightly.

Because He sees what we don’t. He knows what we can’t. And He’s working—not just to provide for us—but to transform us. As Romans 8:28 reminds us:

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
— Romans 8:28, ESV

That verse has anchored me in seasons of delay and detour. And maybe it’s what you need right now, too.

So if you’re in a season where your plans feel like they’re unraveling…
If the opportunities you were excited about have closed…
If God seems quiet, or distant, or unclear…
Let me encourage you: don’t panic. Pause. Pray. Surrender.

God is not punishing you—He’s positioning you. And while it may be uncomfortable now, His peace will come. His direction will unfold. And when you look back, I believe you’ll be able to say, “Thank You, Lord, for not giving me what I thought I needed. Thank You for giving me what was right.”

Because His plans—yes, even the ones that interrupt ours—are always pleasing and perfect.

That’s not just good theology. That’s a promise you can live by.