Why are God’s plans greater than ours? Let’s be honest—most of us live by lists. Grocery lists. Task lists. Prayer lists. Endless to-do lists.
We scribble down goals. We plan the week. We chase productivity. And we feel pretty good when we check off each box.
But here’s the real question:
What if God’s plans don’t match your list?
It’s uncomfortable. Even frustrating.
Yet, over and over again, Scripture reminds us: God’s plans are bigger. Better. Timeless.
Let’s look at why God’s plans top any to-do list we could dream up.
1. Your To-Do List Is Temporary. God’s Plans are Eternal
We think in 24-hour increments. God’s thinking in eternity.
You jot down what needs to be done today: pick up the kids, clean the kitchen, maybe pay that bill you’ve ignored for a week. Meanwhile, God’s planning your growth, your healing, your purpose, and your joy—for decades to come. Isaiah 55:9 says:
“For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts”
That verse isn’t poetic fluff. It’s a reminder that our human plans are tiny compared to God’s big-picture view.
So yes, cleaning the garage matters. But don’t miss the eternal work God is doing in you.
2. Our To-Do Lists Can Be Controlling
Ever been a slave to your own planner?
We get so caught up in managing life, we forget Who is really in charge. That’s where surrender comes in.
Sometimes, a flat tire, canceled plan, or sudden delay is God’s way of redirecting you. He sees what’s around the corner. You don’t.
And guess what? Interruptions aren’t always setbacks. They’re often divine appointments.
Maybe that delay led to a conversation that changed someone’s life. Maybe missing that appointment saved you from something worse. We won’t always know—but God does.
3. God Plans Don’t Need a Clock
You set your alarm. God set the stars.
Your timeline and His rarely match—and that’s okay.
We often say, “God is never late.” But He’s rarely early either.
Waiting is hard. But it’s in the waiting that we grow, trust, and lean into faith. Your to-do list wants fast results. God’s plan grows deep roots. Galatians 6:9 tells us:
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
Not on your schedule. On His.
4. God’s Plans Come With Peace
Ever finish a to-do list and still feel exhausted?
Sometimes even our biggest accomplishments leave us empty. That’s because hustle can’t replace hope. Philippians 4:7 says,
“and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Peace doesn’t come from getting things done. It comes from knowing God’s got it.
So breathe. Be still. He’s working even when you’re not.
5. His Plans are Always for Good
We get stuck thinking everything has to go our way to be good. But Romans 8:28 reminds us:
“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
Even when it doesn’t make sense, even when plans fall apart, God’s still working for your good.
Your to-do list can’t promise that. God can.
Real Life Example: When the List Fails but He Doesn’t
A friend of mine once had the “perfect” day mapped out. Breakfast with her kids. Grocery run. Laundry. Tidy house by 5.
Instead, the washer overflowed, the toddler got sick, and the dinner burned.
She cried. She vented. She prayed.
Later, her neighbor stopped by, broken from a recent loss. Because her plans had crumbled, she had time to sit with her. To listen. To pray.
Her “ruined” day became divine.
What Can We Learn About God’s Plans?
Your to-do list is helpful. But it’s not holy.
It’s okay to plan. God loves order. But hold your list loosely. Ask Him to guide your day.
Start each morning saying, “God, here’s my plan. But your will be done.”
That simple shift can bring more peace than any planner ever could.
Wear the Message
That’s why I love our “God’s Plans Are Greater Than My To-Do List” tee.
It’s comfy, faith-filled, and a daily reminder to trust His direction—not just our own.
Wear it to church. To errands. Around the house. Or whenever you need a little heart-check.
Let it spark conversations and remind others that they’re not alone in the struggle.
Final Thoughts
To-do lists are tools—not masters. Make plans, but let God lead.
When things go sideways, remember: He’s not surprised. He’s already got a better way.
The next time your day doesn’t go “as planned,” pause and smile.
Maybe… it’s going exactly as He planned.
