Proverbs 19:21 says: “There are many plans in a person’s mind, but it is the counsel of the LORD which will stand.” This verse is super relevant for you as young people because you’re at that age of making plans – for school, for the future, for the weekend! But what does it really mean?
What’s Proverbs All About?
Proverbs is part of the “wisdom literature” of the Old Testament. It’s packed with short, memorable sayings that offer practical advice for living a good and wise life. Think of it as a guide to navigating the ups and downs of life. Unlike the historical books or the prophets, Proverbs focuses on everyday situations and choices. It’s like getting wisdom from a wise grandparent.
Breaking Down Proverbs 19:21
“There are many plans in a person’s mind…”: We all have dreams, goals, and ideas. We plan for exams, parties, friendships, and future careers. It’s natural to make plans! This part of the verse acknowledges that.
“…but it is the counsel of the LORD which will stand.”: This is the key part. It doesn’t mean our plans are worthless, but it reminds us that God’s bigger plan is ultimately what matters. “Counsel” refers to God’s wisdom, purpose, and guidance. It’s like having a GPS for life – God’s plan is the best route, even if we sometimes want to take a shortcut.
Connecting to Other Verses
Jeremiah 29:11: “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” This verse reinforces the idea that God has good plans for us. It gives us comfort when our own plans don’t work out.
Matthew 6:33: “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This verse from Jesus’ teaching in the Sermon on the Mount reminds us what our priority should be: seeking God’s will above all else. When we focus on God, our other plans fall into place.
How Does This Point to Jesus?
Jesus perfectly embodied doing God’s will. He didn’t come to do his own thing, but to fulfil God’s plan of salvation for humanity (John 6:38). Even when facing immense suffering, Jesus submitted to God’s plan (Matthew 26:39). He showed us what it truly means to live a life aligned with God’s purpose.
Challenging and Uplifting Questions
- Have you ever made a plan that didn’t work out? How did you feel? What did you learn?
- Do you think it’s wrong to make plans if God’s plan is what ultimately matters? Why or why not?
- How can we know what God’s “counsel” or plan is for our lives? (Think about prayer, reading the Bible, seeking wise counsel from trusted adults).
- How does knowing that God has a plan for you make you feel? Does it give you comfort or challenge you?
A Practical Example
Imagine you’re planning to try out for a sports team. You practice hard, you’re excited, but you don’t make the team. You might be disappointed, but maybe God has other plans for you. Maybe he wants you to focus on something else, or maybe this experience will make you stronger and more resilient.
A Prayer
Dear God, thank you for reminding us that you have a plan for our lives. Help us to trust in your wisdom and guidance, even when our own plans don’t work out. Help us to seek your will in all that we do. Give us the courage to follow your path, knowing that it leads to a good future. Amen.
A Blessing
May you be blessed with the wisdom to discern God’s plan for your life. May you have the courage to follow that plan, even when it’s difficult. And may you find peace and comfort in knowing that God is always with you, guiding you every step of the way. Amen.
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