Amidst this time of graduation celebrations, we are reminded of all the planning and decisions that have transpired—what to serve, who to invite, where to host, but even more so, do I continue my education, where do I do so, what will I do after further training, or even where will I work or train if further education is not pursued. All of this is likely accompanied by both anxiousness and excitement. I recall my own graduation and how I set out with a plan and an excited but anxious heart–4 years of college, obtaining a teaching degree with a Social Studies emphasis and coaching minor, and then off to a destination unknown for fulfilling career as a teacher and coach. Truth be told, I ended up selling shoes at Payless Shoes and never did spend even a single day in the classroom as a teacher! And the same holds true for all of us—most often our plans don’t work out like we think they will.
This week’s message is based on Joshua 8, and holds truth for all of us regardless of our date of graduation, for we will see how God’s plan is worked out in real life, and what steps we can take to ensure God’s best for each of us.