When Plans Fail: Finding Strength in the Setback
There’s nothing like the sting of having a plan — a clear, well-thought-out plan — fall through. Especially when that plan was connected to your purpose. I had everything lined up: the name S.O.S. Strength of Survival was ready to be registered, the devotionals and blogs were written, the email was set up, the vision was alive in me. But when it came time to make it official, life said otherwise. Bills needed to be paid, responsibilities had to come first — and just like that, my plan to secure the name had to be pushed back.
I was disappointed, frustrated even. I had worked hard to get here. I didn’t want to risk someone else taking the name before I could claim it. But this moment reminded me of a deeper truth: our plans are not always God’s timing.
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” — Proverbs 19:21
I had to breathe and remind myself that a delay isn’t a denial. God knows the exact timing for everything. What feels like a setback is often a setup for something greater — a test of faith, a moment to trust instead of control.
Instead of spiraling into disappointment, I chose to reflect:
What is God showing me through this delay?
Could this be a chance to slow down and strengthen my foundation?
What other things can I complete while I wait?
I realized that just because one door is locked right now doesn’t mean the whole house is off-limits. I still have work to do: building the website, writing more content, creating social media platforms, and encouraging others through this journey.
Here’s what I’ve learned — and maybe it will help you too:
When Plans Fail:
Pause, don’t panic. Take a moment to breathe and feel what you feel.
Pray and process. Ask God what He wants to show you in the moment.
Refocus the energy. There’s always something else you can work on.
Trust the delay. God might be protecting or redirecting you.
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” — Psalm 37:23–24
So no, I didn’t get to register S.O.S. today — but I’m still walking in the purpose behind it. And when the time is right, everything will fall into place. Until then, I’ll keep showing up, creating, preparing, and trusting.
If your plans have failed recently, know this: God hasn’t failed you. You are not off course. You are being carried through.
