Calendars, Control, and the Kingdom of God
Yesterday, we continued in our series on the book of James, “Who Am I Becoming?“, with a deeply practical and spiritual question: How do we make plans for our future in a way that honors God? From the earliest days of humanity, we have been planners—organizing time, marking seasons, and striving to bring order to our lives. Yet, in our modern world, planning can become either an anxious attempt to control every detail or a passive drift through life without intention. As Pastor Jake shared, James 4:13-17 offers a third way: a life of planning that is neither driven by fear nor by presumption, but by humble submission to God’s will.
Key Takeaways
– Planning Without God is Presumption, Not Wisdom
It is not wrong to plan, but it is foolish to do so as if we are in control of tomorrow. Our lives are a mist, and every heartbeat is a gift from God. When we plan without seeking God’s counsel, we live as practical atheists, professing faith with our lips but denying it with our actions. True wisdom is found in acknowledging our dependence on God for every step we take.
– Submission Precedes Strategy in Godly Planning
Godly planning begins with a heart of submission, not with the pressures of fear, comparison, or social expectation. Before committing to any plan, we are called to lay our intentions before God, filtering them through prayer and seeking His will. This posture of humility allows God to direct our steps and frees us from the tyranny of self-made agendas.
– God’s Redirection is Often His Greater Purpose
When God closes doors or redirects our plans, it is not to frustrate us but to fulfill His higher purposes. Paul’s willingness to change course in Acts 16 led to the gospel reaching Europe and, ultimately, to us. Our surrendered plans can become the launching pad for God’s work in ways we cannot foresee, if we are willing to let go and follow His lead.
– The Spirit-Filled Life is the Key to Discernment
We cannot discern God’s will for our plans apart from the Holy Spirit. Being regularly filled with the Spirit, listening for His voice, and obeying His promptings are essential practices. God gives wisdom through His Word, through internal callings, and through the Spirit’s guidance, enabling us to plan with confidence and flexibility.
– Seek First the Kingdom and Plan from Rest, Not Anxiety
Jesus teaches us to seek the kingdom of God above all else, trusting that God will provide for our needs. Planning from a place of rest—rather than anxiety or control—frees us to live with open hands. As we surrender our calendars, ambitions, and futures to God, we find peace in His providence and the courage to follow wherever He leads.
Reflection Questions
- Pastor Jake described two extremes: the “free floater” who drifts through life and the “over-planner” who tries to control everything. Which one do you tend to be, and how has that affected your relationship with God and others?
- Can you think of a recent time when you made plans without really seeking God’s input? What was the outcome? How might things have been different if you had started with prayer and submission?
- James challenges us to ask, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” What would it look like for you to practically include God in your planning this week? Is there a specific decision or area of your calendar you need to bring before Him?
- Jake said, “God’s redirection for you could be the resurrection of His plans for your life.” Is there an area where you feel God might be redirecting you right now? What would it look like to surrender that to Him?
- Jake mentioned filtering decisions through God-given values and callings. What are some values or callings you sense God has placed on your life? How can you use these as a filter for your plans?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from July 20
- “I Thank God”
- “Evidence”
- “Goodness of God”
- “Abandoned” (after the message)