The Beauty of Being Caught Off Guard
It was a regular day at work, filled with the usual conversations about holiday plans and end-of-year wrap-ups. Then came an unexpected question: “What are your New Year’s resolutions?” My mind went blank. I hadn’t thought about it yet. In that moment, I felt a mix of embarrassment and surprise. But as I stumbled through an honest response, I realized something important: life’s interruptions are often where God plants seeds of reflection and growth.
As Proverbs 16:9 reminds us, “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” That simple question wasn’t about my lack of preparation—it was an opportunity to pause, realign, and discover God’s grace in the unplanned.
The Unexpected as a Teacher
Often, life throws us into situations we didn’t anticipate, and our first instinct is to search for the “right” answer. But what if the best answer is simply the honest one? Admitting, “I haven’t thought about that yet,” felt vulnerable, but it also felt freeing. Vulnerability has a way of disarming our defenses and opening the door to authenticity.
Albert Einstein once said, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” That moment of uncertainty was an invitation to slow down and reflect—not just on resolutions but on how often I rush through life without pausing to examine my heart and intentions.
Grace in Honesty
One of the most profound lessons I learned in that moment was the power of honesty. Admitting that I hadn’t thought about my resolutions didn’t derail the conversation; it deepened it. My coworker and I began to discuss how easy it is to get caught up in busyness and neglect self-reflection. It reminded me of Socrates’ timeless wisdom: “The unexamined life is not worth living.”
God calls us to authenticity, not perfection. Romans 12:12 urges us to “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” Being honest with ourselves and others creates space for deeper connections and invites God to work through our imperfections. In that unplanned moment, I saw how honesty could become a bridge to meaningful conversations and spiritual growth.
Soul Insights
1. Reflection is an Act of Worship
Taking time to reflect isn’t just about setting goals—it’s a way to honor God’s work in our lives. Psalm 46:10 reminds us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” Reflection allows us to recognize His guidance and sovereignty, even in the smallest details.
2. Authenticity is a Gift
Being genuine in our interactions not only strengthens relationships but also reflects God’s truth. When we are honest, we model His love and grace, creating space for others to do the same.
3. God Speaks Through the Unplanned
Life’s interruptions often hold the greatest lessons. These moments are gentle reminders that God’s plans are higher than ours, as Isaiah 55:9 reminds us: “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways.”
4. Humility Invites Growth
Admitting when we don’t have the answers isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. Humility allows us to lean on God’s wisdom and trust His timing, as James 4:10 urges us: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.”
5. God’s Plans are Perfect
Even when we feel unprepared, God is already at work. Trusting His plan brings peace, knowing that He has already paved the way for our steps.
Lessons for the New Year
As I prepare for the year ahead, I’m reminded of the importance of embracing unplanned moments. They aren’t interruptions to our journey; they’re invitations to grow. C.S. Lewis beautifully expressed this truth: “You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
These moments of vulnerability remind us to slow down, reflect, and seek God’s guidance. They show us that our plans are not the end goal—our relationship with Him is.
Final Thoughts: Trusting God in the Unplanned
Reflecting on this small moment at work, I’m reminded of Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” That unexpected question became a gentle nudge to trust God more deeply. It reminded me that He doesn’t ask for perfection but for a willing heart.
As we step into the new year, let’s embrace the unplanned moments. They’re where God often speaks the loudest. Take time to pause, reflect, and respond with honesty. Trust that, even when you feel unprepared, God’s grace is more than enough.
© 2024 Amelie Chambord
Soul Path Insights 
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