As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways
higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
—Isaiah 55:9
Paul planned to preach in Asia. That plan was nixed. Instead, God sent him to Europe. That trip worked out well—he planted a string of churches there in places that you’ve heard of: Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth.
Paul also planned to go to Rome. Though long delayed, he finally went—but as a captive, not a tourist. When he got to Rome he didn’t go to church—he went to jail. That worked out well too—he spent his time in the pokey writing letters that you’ve read: Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.
When it seems that God isn’t in step with your plans, keep an eye out for how he is shaping you to fit his plan.
Plan, but be prepared
to take an alternate route.