A preacher once said, “God is not impressed by our success, but by our faith.” That may sound surprising, especially in a world that celebrates results. But it reflects a deep biblical truth. Scripture says, “
Habakkuk 2:4, ESV).
The righteous shall live by his faith”
In other words, God values trust over performance.
Many believers assume that when their plans go smoothly—when ministries flourish, finances align, and life feels fruitful—that’s a clear sign of divine approval. But God doesn’t always operate on human logic. In fact, Scripture shows us that He sometimes interrupts even the most sincere efforts—not to discourage us, but to deepen our dependence on Him.
Take the Apostle Paul as an example. He was passionate about preaching the gospel, traveling widely to spread the message of Christ. Yet multiple times, his plans were interrupted—by imprisonment, shipwrecks, or resistance.
In Acts 16:6–7 (NIV), we read: “
Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia.”
Imagine that: the Holy Spirit prevented them from preaching in a certain area. Why? Because God’s purpose was bigger than Paul’s immediate plan. Sometimes, divine redirection is hidden within what feels like a closed door.
In another case, Paul was imprisoned for preaching the gospel (Acts 21–28). Yet it was during these imprisonments that he wrote much of the New Testament, including letters that still shape Christian doctrine today. So even though his outward ministry was “interrupted,” God’s work through him never stopped.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him…” (Romans 8:28, NIV).
We see this in the life of the prophet Jeremiah as well. In Jeremiah 37, after delivering God’s word, Jeremiah was falsely accused of betrayal and thrown into a cistern. God could have protected him from that injustice—but He didn’t. Why? Because faith isn’t built only on ease and comfort. It’s forged in moments of uncertainty, where we choose to believe that God is still with us. As Jeremiah wrote later, “
Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him” (Jeremiah 17:7, NIV).
Even Jesus, in His earthly ministry, faced interruptions. In Mark 6:31–34 (ESV), Jesus invited His disciples to rest after ministry, but a large crowd found them. Moved with compassion, He changed His plan and taught them. This shows us that love often requires flexibility. Service to God sometimes means allowing your plans to be reshaped for the sake of others.
In practical terms, this means that when God interrupts your life—when your goals, routines, or dreams are suddenly overturned—it’s not always a sign that something is wrong. Sometimes, it’s the exact place where faith is born. Joseph was faithful in Potiphar’s house, yet still thrown into prison (Genesis 39). But even there, “
the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love” (Genesis 39:21, ESV).
So when your plans fall apart—when you face delays, disappointments, or divine detours—don’t lose heart. People may say, “If your God cares, why did He let this happen?” But they don’t understand that God is not focused on making life easy. He is focused on forming Christ in us (Romans 8:29).
Faith means trusting that God is still working, even when nothing seems to make sense. And because He is faithful, He won’t leave you there.
As Psalm 37:23–24 (NIV) reminds us:
“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.”
So don’t be discouraged when God disrupts your plans—for His name’s sake. Trust Him. He knows what He’s doing. And He will strengthen you in every season.
Shalom.
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