Open Hands, Open Future

“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city...’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” James 4:13-15 NKJV 

As women, we often thrive on planning. We organize our days, schedule activities for our children, manage work responsibilities, and look forward to gatherings and vacations planned months ahead. Our calendars can quickly become full.

Planning itself is not wrong. In fact, it can be wise. But this passage reminds us of something deeper: our plans should never replace our dependence on God.

We often plan as if tomorrow is guaranteed, but it isn’t. James describes our lives as a mist, brief and fragile. It is a humbling reminder that our time is in God’s hands.

Saying, “If it is the Lord’s will,” is more than words; it is a posture of the heart. It means surrendering every plan, big or small, and trusting God to lead, even when He redirects us. Sometimes His changes bring disappointment, but they are always for our good and His purpose. Today, we are invited to hold our plans with open hands.

Am I truly willing to let God direct my plans, even when it means change?

Lord, You hold the future in Your hands. You know my life, and You know my heart. Help me surrender all my plans, today and for the future to You. Teach me to trust You in every detail.

Ruth Vega