SEPTEMBER 5 – Reading 248

by Yasmin Rosado | September 5

“SURRENDERING OUR PLANS TO GOD”
(Jeremiah 42:1–44:30)

“Whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God to whom we send you, that it may go well with us, if we obey the voice of the LORD our God.” – Jeremiah 42:6

If you’ve ever faced a tough decision, whether at work, in a relationship or in any other area of life, you know how overwhelming it can be. I remember a time when I had to make a major decision about my next step at work. I prayed, brought it before the Lord, and assumed that meant I would automatically have His blessing and be walking in His will. But looking back, I realize I hadn’t truly surrendered the outcome to Him. Instead, I was more focused on receiving God’s approval for the plan I had already decided on.

This is what we see in Jeremiah 42:6, when the people of Judah said, “Whether it is pleasant or unpleasant, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God to whom we send you, that it may go well with us, if we obey the voice of the LORD our God.” Yet when God told them not to flee to Egypt, they ignored His command and went anyway. Their words declared obedience, but their hearts clung to their own plans. 

I can’t help but wonder how often we do the same, saying we want God’s will while still holding tightly to our own. The people of Judah thought they could secure God’s blessing without yielding their plans, but their disobedience led to hardship and loss. I’ve learned in my own life that partial surrender leads to unnecessary struggle.  True obedience means trusting God enough to release the outcome completely into His hands. When we fully let go and follow Him, even into uncertain places, we find His peace, His provision, and a perfect plan that far surpasses anything we could have made for ourselves.

Simple Truth: Praying for guidance means little without a heart willing to obey, even when the answer is hard.

Reflections:

• When have I prayed for direction but hoped God would agree with my plans?
• How can I prepare myself to truly surrender my decisions to God?

Application:

• Before making big decisions, ask God to help you surrender your desires and trust His plan.
• Spend quiet time listening for His voice, not just speaking your requests.

   

Closing Prayer:
Lord, I confess that sometimes I come to You wanting confirmation rather than true guidance. Help me surrender my plans and trust Your will, even when it’s difficult. Teach me to obey fully and walk faithfully with You.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.