I often hear people expressing an opinion that every circumstance in their life must be part of God’s plan for them. This leads to a confusing point of view that has a loving and compassionate God creating tragedy and painful circumstances seemingly on some whim!
I assert that not everything that happens is part of God’s plan (despite insurance companies claiming that natural disasters are “Acts of God”), but rather that He can adapt and weave unpleasant experiences into his purposes.
Understanding the difference between a plan and a purpose is vital to navigating life with clarity. A plan is a practical roadmap generally created by us (although on occasion, God might lay out a specific plan of action)—adjustable, often shaped by logic and circumstances.
A purpose, however, is a higher calling or goal that gives meaning to our existence, rooted in something greater than ourselves. Scripture reveals that purpose stands above plans, guiding our lives even when the strategies crafted by us or others fail. Some examples from Scripture are helpful (all quotations are from The New Living Translation).
A purpose establishes a foundation—a vision that defines our reason for being. When God called Abram in Genesis 12:1–3, He said, “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you… I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others.”
Abram’s plan was simple: leave and obey. But God’s purpose—to bless the world through his lineage—was far greater. Plans are tools to serve purpose, not the other way around. Hebrews 11:1 affirms, “Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” That is, faith leads us toward the greater goal of the purpose. And in Genesis 15:5, God says, “Look up into the sky and count the stars if you can. That’s how many descendants you will have!” Abraham had no children at the time. His faith in that purpose surpassed any detailed plan he could have imagined.
Psalm 119:105 underscores how Scripture itself can both reveal and fuel purpose: “Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” God’s Word illuminates purpose, while our plans are the flexible steps we take along that path.
Consider King Hezekiah. In Isaiah 36–37, when threatened by Assyria, he initially relied on human defenses and political gestures. Yet, he found strength not in strategy but in prayer. Isaiah 37:14–20 records Hezekiah spreading the enemy’s letter before the Lord and pleading for deliverance. God responded, and Assyria was miraculously turned back. This moment reminds us that plans may falter, but purpose, anchored in faith, endures.
This theme is woven throughout Scripture. Jeremiah 29:11 offers a clear promise: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.’” God’s plans (note the plural) support His purpose—to bring restoration and hope. Likewise, Proverbs 16:9 wisely counsels, “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” This is, of course, the origin of the Yiddish saying, “man plans, God laughs!”
Another example can be found in the life of Joseph: he was sold into slavery, imprisoned, and forgotten. Every human plan collapsed. Yet in Genesis 50:20, he declares, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.” God’s purpose for Joseph—to preserve a nation—unfolded not through human strategy, but through God’s orchestration.
This distinction holds real significance. Plans are fragile—shaped by setbacks, uncertainty, and change. But purpose? It’s a compass that holds steady. Our calendars, goals, and checklists are useful, but they are not ultimate. Purpose is.
So let me suggest that if your plans seem stalled or shattered, don’t despair. There may be a greater purpose unfolding in ways you cannot yet see. Seek out God’s purpose though scripture and the assurance that He will not plan to bring evil into your life.
Choose faith. Choose trust. Let purpose lead. Purpose reigns. Plans follow.
Blessings on you and yours, Jim Black
P.S. if you’d like to read previous ruminations of mine they can be found at https://www.salvationarmyconcordca.org/chronicle/?category=Bible%20Study