The Divine Design For Our Lives Series

"The Divine Design for Our Lives"

Introduction:

Welcome the congregation and introduce the key verse: Proverbs 19:21 (NLT) - "You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail."

Explain that today's sermon will explore the concept of God's divine design for our lives, emphasizing how our plans align with His purpose.

Point 1: The Human Desire to Plan

Illustration: Share a personal anecdote or a relatable story about how people often make elaborate plans for their lives, such as career aspirations, travel goals, or personal achievements.

Scripture: Read Proverbs 19:21, highlighting the part that says, "You can make many plans."

Exposition:

Acknowledge that as human beings, we have a natural inclination to plan and set goals for ourselves. This desire to plan can be driven by ambition, dreams, or a sense of purpose.

Explain that planning itself is not wrong; in fact, it's a responsible and prudent thing to do. However, we must recognize that our plans are subject to something greater: God's divine purpose.

Point 2: The Sovereignty of God's Purpose

Illustration: Share a biblical story or a real-life example of someone whose carefully laid plans were altered or redirected by unforeseen circumstances.

Scripture: Emphasize the second part of Proverbs 19:21: "but the Lord's purpose will prevail."

Exposition:

Highlight the sovereignty of God's purpose in our lives. His divine plan always takes precedence over our human plans.

Share examples from the Bible, such as Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership in Egypt, to illustrate how God's purpose can supersede human intentions.

Encourage the congregation to trust in God's wisdom and sovereignty, even when their plans seem to be thwarted.

Point 3: Embracing God's Divine Design

Illustration: Share a personal testimony or a story of someone who found greater fulfilment and purpose by surrendering their plans to God's guidance.

Scripture: Share verses that encourage surrendering to God's will, such as Proverbs 3:5-6.

Exposition:

Explain that embracing God's divine design requires surrendering our plans and desires to Him. It's an act of trust and faith in His wisdom.

Encourage the congregation to seek God's guidance in their plans and decisions, acknowledging that His purpose is higher and more fulfilling than their own.

Remind them that when they align their lives with God's purpose, they experience true meaning, significance, and peace.

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points of the sermon, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty in our plans and submitting to His divine design.

Invite the congregation to reflect on their own plans and ask whether they are seeking God's guidance and purpose in their lives.

Offer a closing prayer, asking for God's wisdom and guidance as they navigate their plans and trust in His divine design for their futures.