Saturday 12th October 2024 may not hold a specific global celebration, but it marks an important day for reflection on a pivotal biblical principle: trusting God’s plan. On this day in history, we can recall the lessons of great faith, particularly the incredible story of Christopher Columbus’s discovery of the Americas on 12th October 1492. It was a risky and uncertain journey, but it opened up new frontiers and opportunities—much like our journey of faith.
Stepping Into the Unknown
Imagine setting sail across uncharted waters, not knowing if you’ll even reach your destination. Columbus and his crew embarked on a journey full of uncertainty and peril. But isn’t that often what following God’s plan feels like? We take steps of faith without always seeing the full picture. In Hebrews 11:1, we’re reminded, “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”
God calls each of us to take bold steps of faith, trusting Him with the outcome, just as He did with Abraham when He promised to make him the father of many nations, even though Abraham had no child at the time (Genesis 12:1-3). Abraham had no roadmap, no clear evidence of how God’s promise would come to pass, but he trusted anyway. Faith isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about trusting the One who does.
Trusting in God’s Timing
Sometimes, God’s plan unfolds differently than we expect. Just like Columbus took years to convince others of his vision, we too can face delays or setbacks in our lives. But just because something takes time doesn’t mean God’s promise has failed. In fact, God’s timing is perfect.
Think about Proverbs 3:5-6, which tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” There’s a reassurance in this that helps us see beyond the temporary delays and uncertainties of life. It reminds us that God’s hand is on the wheel, even when the seas get rough.
Moving Forward with Faith
Whether you’re waiting for God to open a door, or you’re stepping into the unknown, like Columbus sailing west, faith requires action. It’s easy to get stuck waiting for the “perfect” conditions, but Ecclesiastes 11:4 warns us: “Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap.” Sometimes, God is calling us to move forward despite the uncertainties around us.
Perhaps today you’re feeling unsure about the next steps in your life. Maybe there’s an opportunity ahead that you’re hesitating to take, or perhaps you’re just tired of waiting. Whatever your situation, remember that God is with you in the uncertainty. His plans are good, and His purposes for you are full of hope (Jeremiah 29:11).
Reflection Verse
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
A Moment to Reflect with Encouraging Action
Reflection Question: What area of your life do you need to surrender to God today? Is there something you’re holding onto, thinking you need to figure it out yourself, rather than trusting God’s timing and plan?
Action Step: Write down one area of uncertainty in your life where you need to trust God more. Pray over it, and ask God to help you release it into His hands.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness. Help us to trust You in all things, even when we can’t see the outcome. Just as You guided Columbus across unknown seas and led Abraham into a promised land, guide us in the steps we take today. We commit our plans, our uncertainties, and our hopes to You. Give us the faith to trust Your timing and Your plan, knowing that You are always working for our good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
