Does it feel like the road you are on isn’t going where you want to go? Do you ever feel like you’ve got everything mapped out, but your plans aren’t working? Sometimes I run into those situations. At times, no matter how hard I try, things just don’t work out the way I thought they would. That’s when I have to remind myself that God’s plans are greater than my own. Even when things don’t make sense, He’s got it under control.
He says in Jeremiah 29:11…
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. NKJV
What to Do When Your Plans Don’t Match God’s Plan
When your plans and God’s plans don’t line up, it’s easy to become frustrated or feel like forcing things to happen. But that won’t solve the problem. Instead, step back and ask God for direction. Pray for clarity and be open to what He’s trying to show you. Sometimes, it’s about letting go of your own ideas and trusting that He knows what’s best—even if it’s not what you expected.
How Can You Tell If You’re On the Right Path?
Here are a few things to think about:
- Why are you doing what you’re doing? Is it for you, or is it just to please someone else? God wants you to follow His path, not someone else’s expectations.
- What have you learned about how God works and from your experiences—good and difficult? Sometimes, encountering constant roadblocks is a sign that you’re not on the right path.
- Ask God for wisdom. The Bible says if you need wisdom, ask. (James 1:5) Pray and stay open to the answers, even if they come in unexpected ways.
What If God’s Plans Are Different Than Yours? 
It’s tough when you feel pulled in a direction you didn’t plan on. You may be feeling roadblocks. If you’re stuck between what you want and where you think God is leading you, talk to Him about it. Pray for guidance and listen for His answers—whether it’s through scripture, prayer, or advice from people you trust. Remember, even if things don’t make sense, God’s got your back and is working things out for your good.
How Do You Trust God When Things Don’t Make Sense?
Let’s be real: Trusting God when you’re confused is hard. But you can always talk to Him about your doubts and ask for help in trusting Him. The Bible is filled with reminders that God is faithful and loves you, even when life is complicated. At the end of the day, He’s in control—even when things feel out of control.
What If God’s Timing Isn’t Yours?
Ever feel like you’re swimming upstream, trying to make something happen, but nothing works? Maybe God’s timing is just different. He sees the whole picture, even when we don’t. If things aren’t lining up, ask God to reveal what He’s up to and help you get on board with His timing.
How Do You Keep Going When God Says “No”?
We all hit that wall sometimes—a job we want but don’t get, a relationship that doesn’t work out, or a dream that feels out of reach. Here are a few tips for those moments:
- Pray for understanding. Instead of becoming angry or bitter, ask God to help you see what He’s doing.
- Trust that He has something better planned. Often a closed door is just making room for something even better.
- Surrender your plans. It’s not easy, but faith means trusting God even when things don’t make sense.
- Remember that “no” can be a blessing. Looking back, there are probably things you’re glad didn’t work out the way you wanted.
Are You Being Disobedient, or Is God Testing Your Faith?
It’s not always easy to tell. If you’re not sure whether to keep pushing or let go, ask yourself:
- What’s my motive? Am I doing this for me or for God?
- Am I too focused on the outcome? Sometimes, God cares more about what we learn along the way.
- Who am I really doing this for? Is it about my goals, or is it about honoring God?
When God Leads You Somewhere Unexpected…
Sometimes, God takes us in a direction we never planned. If that happens, remember:
- God knows what’s best, even when it doesn’t match our plans.
- Let go and trust Him. Stay flexible and open to change.
- Trust that God will work everything out for your good—even if it doesn’t make sense right now. (Romans 8:28)
The Bottom Line
Life doesn’t always go the way we thought it would, but that’s OK. God has a bigger and better purpose in mind, and He’ll work it all out—even if you can’t see it yet.
A Helpful Article: Trusting God’s Timing instead of Fearing
