Unexpected Turns… again!

Scripture: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” — Proverbs 19:21

I had a plan. I mapped it out, set my goals, and worked hard to make it happen. Then life took an unexpected turn. I didn’t see it coming, and it left me feeling disoriented and frustrated.

One of the biggest unexpected turns in my life was when my wife and I faced infertility. We had dreams of how our family would grow, but month after month, those dreams seemed farther away. We prayed, we waited, and we grieved. It wasn’t the story we expected. But in the midst of our pain, God was writing a different story—one that led us to the three beautiful children we now call ours. Looking back, I see His hand in ways I never could have imagined at the time.

Joseph in the Bible knew what it meant for life to take an unexpected turn. Sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and thrown into prison—none of that was in his plan. Yet, years later, when he stood in a place of authority, he could say, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20).

When life takes an unexpected turn, it’s easy to feel lost. But the detours we didn’t plan are often where God does His deepest work in us. What feels like a setback may actually be a setup for something greater.

Reflection Question: Where in your life has an unexpected turn led to something better than you originally planned?

Prayer: Lord, when my plans fall apart, remind me that Yours never do. Help me to trust You in the unexpected turns of life, knowing that Your purpose will prevail. Amen.