In 1937, John Steinbeck wrote Of Mice and Men. The title came from the poem To a Mouse, written by Robert Burns in 1786. The line “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry” was Steinbeck’s inspiration. It is said Burns composed his poem after finding a mouse nest overturned while plowing a field. Despite the mouse’s idea that its home was in a protected place, things didn’t go as planned. The same theme is played out for the characters in Steinbeck’s novel.

Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.”

James 4:15

Today’s verse explains how plans should be made. James teaches that you do not know what tomorrow will bring. Plans made by men are superseded by God’s purposes (Proverbs 19:21).When deciding what you will undertake, whether it be for ordinary everyday events or for life’s larger goals, don’t lean on your own abilities and understanding. Instead, keep your focus on God’s will so your endeavors will be successful.

As you look ahead to this final week of 2014 and into the New Year, take time to pray particularly that you’ll be more sensitive to His ways and plans for you. Seek His guidance and rely upon it (Proverbs 3:5), then intercede for the nation’s leaders to do the same.

Recommended Reading: Lamentations 3:25-27, 37-41