Ten years ago this summer I met Michelle.  One day later I came to New Orleans for the first time. I had a plan for my life and it did not include Michelle or living long term in New Orleans.  I was going to spend the summer in NOLA and then prepare for a life overseas.  Michelle was living in another country, and we continued living in separate countries for the first 20 months of our dating relationship.

Plans are important.  I love planning.  I have an addiction to planning.  It comes naturally to me.  It gives me purpose and direction.  It helps me accomplish goals in my personal and professional life.  The problem I find is that life has a way of interrupting our plans.  The Bible tells us in Proverbs 16:9,

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.

Although planning is an essential part of life, I have learned am continuing to learn the following:

1. I’m not in control.  This is not always easy to remember, but it is true.
2. It is good that I’m not in control.  It is important to separate this from the first point.  It is hard to come to this realization.
3. I must leave room for interruptions.  They are going to happen.  No, you cannot plan them, but you can count on them.  Having margin in your life is key.
4. Plans are good.  I am not saying that we should not plan.  Plans give vision and allow us to dream.  We just cannot worship our plans.
5. God can be trusted.  I am so glad that this is true.  Although I love planning, submitting those plans to God is a must.

My love for my wife and for New Orleans began 10 years ago.  I could not have planned it better.

Please share in the comments section one great thing that happened to you because your plans changed.