This is a paraphrase of a line from Robert Burns’ poem To a Mouse. Burns is said to have written it after he destroyed a mouse’s nest while ploughing a field. The mouse’s careful planning and work were derailed by something it did not expect – human agricultural dominion. While Burns expresses regret at having stolen the mouse’s home, he also notes the reality of life for all creatures. ‘Mice and men’ alike put plans in place, but are vulnerable to circumstances outside their control or foresight. We simply do not know what the next year, day or even hour will bring. In just a moment, our lives can change completely.

Human beings respond to that reality in a few different ways. Some throw up their hands in despair, anxious and fearful about the future. Others might think they should simply live ‘in the moment’, pursuing pleasure and happiness while they can. And still others live by faith in the only One whose plans and purposes will never be thwarted.

A couple of months ago, our Wednesday night Bible study group looked at the book of Proverbs, which teaches to live according to this truth. Consider the following excerpts: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; ⁶ in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Prov. 3:5,6) “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” (16:9) “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (19:21)

Although there are many uncertainties for us in this life, we can rest assured in the sovereignty of God. True peace is found in surrendering ourselves to Him, knowing that His plans are perfect. Christ gave the greatest example of this when He prayed (in the face of His impending death for our sins): “yet not what I will, but what You will.” (Mark 14:36). As one year draws to a close and another approaches, may that be our attitude – may we surrender our ‘best-laid plans’ to the infinitely better will of God.