YOUR WAY IS BETTER
Mechelle Holbrook
Today’s Scripture: “And Sarai said to Abram, 'Behold now, the Lord has prevented me from bearing children. Go in to my servant; it may be that I shall obtain children by her.' And Abram listened to the voice of Sarai.” Genesis 16:2, ESV
Theme: Sometimes we are like Abram and Sarai who made and followed their own flawed plan.
THE BEST PLAN
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably tried to “help” God out a time or two. I can’t count how many times I’ve come up with a solution that seems like the best plan—especially when it comes to my young adult children. They’ve outgrown the stage where I can say, “Do this because I said so,” so now I try to offer suggestions or share my personal opinions. I genuinely want what’s best for them, and I often think I know what that is—whether it’s about their relationships, jobs, or next steps in life.
MY PLAN
I’ll pray about it, but if I’m honest, sometimes I’m really informing God of my plan and asking Him to bless it. For example, I’ve caught myself trying to steer them toward (or away from) a particular person I think would—or wouldn’t—be a good match. Sure, God calls us to guide our children and point them toward His Word, but I often find myself thinking my way might be better or faster. And that’s when God lovingly reminds me His way is better—and I need to wait, trust, and not get ahead of Him. Thankfully, He is so patient with me.
Can you relate? Maybe you’re facing something with your job, your children, your finances, or even a conflict with someone—and it just feels like God is taking too long. So, you start planning; fixing; pushing. After all, we need an answer now, right?
SARAI AND ABRAM’S PLAN
But as we see in today’s Scripture, Sarai did the same thing—and it made a big mess. Instead of waiting on God, she made her own plan. Her solution led to blame, bitterness, and broken relationships—none of which are from God. When we take matters into our own hands, we often create unnecessary pain and confusion. God's plans may not always be fast, but they are always best.
Make It Personal: Where in your life are you tempted to take over and make your own plan instead of seeking God? What would it look like to slow down and truly trust Him—to move at His pace, wait on His timing, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide your words and decisions? Take a moment today to surrender that situation—whatever it is—and believe that His way is better.
Pray: God, we come to You humbly, seeking Your will and Your way first. We admit that sometimes we think our plans are better—or we simply lack the patience to wait. But today’s Scripture reminds us that when we rush ahead of You, we only create more problems. Help us to trust You fully. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Your plans are loving, good, and always perfectly timed. Teach us to wait well. Amen.
Read: Genesis 16:1-6
Weekly Memory Verse: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8, ESV