“There are many plans in a man’s heart, nevertheless the Lord’s counsel—that will stand” (Proverbs 19:21).
Because of His wisdom and omniscience, the God who knows the end from the beginning only makes one plan to address a problem or situation. That plan is perfect in every possible way. The pre-eminent example of this truth is the eternally purposed plan of universal human salvation from sin. Every facet and detail of it is perfect. Its remedy for the guilt of past sin (i.e. justification) is flawless and complete. Its provisions for the present-day battles of ongoing spiritual warfare—with its victories and defeats (i.e. sanctification)—is flawless and complete. Its vibrant and living hope of a future inheritance, the eternal blessings found in the heavenly kingdom (i.e. glorification), is flawless and complete. The contents and counsel of God’s plan always will stand.
Because of our finiteness, humans do not even know what tomorrow may bring (James 4:14). Wisdom quickly informs us that every plan made today should also have one or more contingency plans. Plan A rarely goes exactly as it was conceived.
A man is wise to plan his ways.
A man is wiser when he submits His plans to God’s will (James 4:15).
A man is wisest when He trusts Jehovah and His providence to override his plans as God sees best.
