Impossible Plans and Nagging Doubts
Scripture Reading — Luke 1:31-35
“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”
—Luke 1:34
“You can get up and walk now.” Earlier in the day, I had undergone surgery on my leg. When a nurse urged me to try walking, I could feel a searing pain from the back of my knee all the way up to my lower back. Still nauseated from anesthesia, the last thing I wanted to do was move my leg in any way. Even if I had wanted to move, I didn’t think I would be able to stand. The instructions did not make sense; I didn’t think it was even possible to follow them.
Mary wondered whether it was possible for her to give birth to the Messiah. She was a virgin. The angel’s words seemed neither possible nor beneficial.
God has a unique way of working out his plans that often seem impossible to us. He told Gideon to leave soldiers behind as he led them into a fierce battle (Judges 7). He told Noah to build a boat before it started raining (Genesis 6-7). God’s instructions may have seemed strange, but God always produced the intended results.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we will face confusing times when we don’t understand how or why God is working out his plans at the moment. But, in his strength, we can find comfort as we trust that God is wiser than we are. He can and will keep all of his promises and bless his people.
When have God’s plans seemed impossible to you? How has it worked out?
Lord, help us trust in your plans and power when we are confused about things happening around us. May your will be done through us. Amen.
About the author — Bill Sytsma
Bill Sytsma is a graduate of Calvin Theological Seminary (M.Div) and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (D.Min). He is the author of the book Follow the Leader and is serving as the pastor of New Life Christian Reformed Church in Highland, Indiana. He and his wife, Staci, have hosted support groups for families built through adoption. He and Staci are the proud parents of three active boys: Luke, Isaac, and Nico.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!