Have you ever been faced with a gift or task that you asked for, but scared you’re inadequate or incapable of succeeding? For me, it’s easy to say, “God, I can’t do this alone – but with You, I can do all things.” Easy to say, but not always easy to endure.

Already in 2018, Justin and I had a few things pop up that caught us by surprise. Things that maybe our hearts desired, things that are best for us/our children, and things that were obvious God’s hand was at work, but not necessarily our timing or plan. So many times I’ve been reminded that His plan is bigger and better than mine, and I’m resting assured that all of these things are just that – His plan and purpose.

While praying over these surprises, I’ve been reminded of Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. He knew His purpose on this Earth. He knew His death was coming. But as the time neared He prayed, “Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:39-44)

Even Jesus, in a time of prayer, asked God for a pass. God, if You can do this any other way… If you’re willing to do this without my pain and suffering… Remove this cup from me; take this from me. But then, He ends His prayer with, “(but) not My will, but Yours be done.”

Read: God, I’m scared. I don’t want to do this. But, if this is the only way – if this is Your will, I’m onboard. I’m your (wo)man.

No matter what surprises come our way, I hope my prayer is always, “Not my will, but Yours be done, Lord.” Because each and every time that I am surprised, I think of how thankful I am that God is never surprised. He is always in the know; He’s got the scoop. His plan and purpose are bigger and better than mine.

As you face surprises in your life,  I hope that Jesus’ prayer comes to your mind and reminds you – while a situation may be scary or heavy, that He will give you strength to endure. That while you may be surprised, I pray that you find hope in the fact that He is never surprised.

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When I think of life’s surprises, Joy Belle’s clubfeet top the list of those that shook my core. But He knew from the day He formed her in my womb (& before!) that she would be my girl and that she would have tiny, crooked feet. He was never surprised. There is just something about knowing that, that brings me so much comfort.