Living the Dash

Letting Go of Control and Trusting God’s Greater Purpose

We humans sure do love to plan.

We come up with Plan A, then a backup Plan B, just in case. Some of us even go down the alphabet with what-ifs and backup ideas – especially when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. We crave that sense of control, of knowing what’s coming next. And when things don’t go according to our plan, we scramble to fix it, figure it out, or force something to happen.

But while praying the other night, this simple truth settled into my heart:

What we really need isn’t Plan A or Plan B… it’s Plan G.

G for God.

Why We Struggle to Let Go

There’s nothing wrong with being thoughtful or organized. Planning ahead is wise—but when we rely more on our own plans than God’s guidance, we end up carrying stress we weren’t meant to hold.

We crave control, but control is an illusion.
God doesn’t expect us to have it all figured out—He just asks us to trust Him.

His Plan is Always Bigger and Better

Even when we don’t understand it, God’s plan is always working for our good.

“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

God’s plan may not always make sense in the moment. It may take us on detours, delays, or decisions we never expected. But His plan is never careless. Never random. Never second-best.

When we surrender our Plan A (and B… and C…) and trust Plan G, we step into a story that’s woven with grace, purpose, and peace.

How to Choose Plan G in Everyday Life

Here are four simple ways to start letting go and leaning into God’s plan:

1. Pray First

Before you start planning or problem-solving, pause. Invite God into the process.

2. Hold Your Plans Loosely

Make room for God to interrupt your ideas. Sometimes, what feels like a setback is really a setup.

3. Anchor Yourself in Scripture

Let God’s Word be your steady place when everything feels uncertain.

4. Practice Daily Surrender

Open your hands. Loosen your grip. Ask God to help you trust even when you don’t see the full picture.

Encouragement for the Weary Planner

Maybe you’re in a season where none of your plans are working out. Maybe you’re tired, confused, or wondering where God is in the middle of it.

Friend, I’ve been there too. But I promise—Plan G is already in motion.

It’s the plan that brings peace when we have no answers.
The plan that brings hope when nothing makes sense.
The plan written by a loving Father who sees what we cannot.

So today, take a deep breath.
Loosen your grip.
And trust the One who never needed a backup plan.