Prevented But Not Defeated
Trusting God in Romans 1:13
Disruptions are part of life. Plans fall apart, schedules shift, and ambitions go unfulfilled. In Romans 1:13, Paul gives us a glimpse into his experience with disrupted plans: “I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I have often intended to come to you, but thus far have been prevented.”
Paul’s words aren’t just an update—they’re a lesson in trusting God’s providence even when life doesn’t go as planned.
Paul’s intention to visit Rome wasn’t a passing thought. He longed to be with the Roman Christians, to strengthen their faith and be mutually encouraged by them (Romans 1:11-12). Yet, despite his repeated efforts, something always got in the way. The text doesn’t tell us exactly what prevented Paul, but it does point us to a larger truth: God’s providence governs every detail of our lives.
Consider the words of Proverbs 16:9: “The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.” Paul understood this deeply. He knew that while his plans were good, God’s plans were perfect. This is a hard truth to embrace, especially when we’re faced with frustrations and roadblocks.
The providence of God is evident throughout Scripture. In 2 Samuel 7, David had a good and godly desire to build a temple for the Lord. But God had other plans, redirecting David to a greater purpose: the establishment of a kingdom that would ultimately lead to Christ. Similarly, Paul’s delayed journey to Rome wasn’t wasted time—it was part of God’s larger plan to use him in other regions first.
What about us? How do we respond when our plans are derailed? Do we trust God’s wisdom, or do we grumble against His providence? John Calvin offers a challenging perspective: “The godly are satisfied with the hindrance that arises from some approved reason.” For the Christian, that approved reason is always rooted in God’s perfect purposes.
Paul’s words in Romans 1:13 remind us to trust God’s timing, even when we don’t understand it. Our plans may be good, but God’s plans are always better.
Reflect on a time when your plans were disrupted. How did God work through that situation?
Ben, your Facebook post led me here — I am new to this app and your page and am interested in learning more about the app, subscription, etc.
About our plans vs God’s plans…Great post and timely reminder… Helped shift my thoughts from potential New Year’s resolutions to a renewed focus on those God already has for me.
Asking myself, how do these heavenly plans compare with my earthly plans that I’ve become so determined to accomplish?
Not sure…. But my plans should be to seek Him in all I think, do and say…. Humbling reminder.
I miss our covenant Cleveland family and hope y’all are doing well… Tell the Tues night group I said hello and keep you eye on Lee :-)
Happy New Year, Brother!
Reed
———
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11