“A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)

People all around the world work to make a living. But, life isn't just about work—we also have dreams and goals! Before we do something big, it helps to make a plan. Still, sometimes, we don’t know which direction to take in life. We might ask questions like, “What am I here for?” or, “What should I do with my life?”.

Some people are wise, while others aren’t as careful. Wise people think about the future; they take time to look around, learn, and plan. People who don’t think ahead work on things they chance upon; they don’t plan, and they don’t try to grow.

Most things in life are either important or not-so-important. Big things—like school, family, and our faith—need us to plan and do our best. Smaller things, like hobbies and interests, aren’t as serious, so it's okay if mistakes are made in the process.

Making Plans with God in Mind

Although planning is important, we must remember that prayer is even more powerful. We should always talk to God and ask Him to help us plan well. While we work or try to reach our goals, we need to ask God to guide us. This is the best way to succeed.

Sometimes, highly intelligent people plan so much, they forget to pray. They try to do everything on their own and only add to their worry and stress. 

True wisdom means trusting God with all our hearts. We shouldn’t try to figure out everything by ourselves. When we ask Jesus to lead us, we avoid a lot of trouble and can be more at peace.

In the Bible, James talks about a businessman who made big plans for the next day without thinking about the fact that we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. 

Life is short—like a cloud that appears as quickly as it disappears. So, instead of saying, “I will do this or that tomorrow,” remember James 4:15, that “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” This is the kind of heart God wants us to have—one that always checks in with Him and His will first.

Family Altar

Use these discussion questions and our prayer as a guide for your family altar.

Parents can lead the prayer and invite their children to repeat after them or encourage their children to take the lead, making family altar time a shared journey of faith.

Discussion Questions:

• What is one thing you can do to improve the way you live as a Christian?

• Why do you think people try to handle everything on their own instead of trusting God?

• Do you think your goals for the future match what God wants for you?

Prayer in Words:

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, we pray.

Thank You, Lord, for loving us and having a plan for each of our lives. 

Please help us trust You and follow Your will, take away our worries and give us peace because You know us best.

Lord, remind us to pray before we plan, and strengthen our faith to trust You everyday.

Hallelujah, Amen.