If there was ever a time when the world was united as one, the start of Genesis 11 is it. It was a time when people had one language and were united in popular thought with powerful leaders. As such, they decided to deviate from God’s plan of going throughout the world to be fruitful and multiply. The popular plan was to go to a place (Babel) and make it their own city. It was to be a place where they would make a “name for themselves.” In their pride, they built a tower into the heavens. But God, brought confusion to them by giving them different languages, thereby causing them to change their plans and be scattered to other regions.
In chapter 12, we find a country united as one. As a country, the popular plan also excluded God. So the Lord called out one family among them, Abram and his wife Sarai to go to a place where God would show him. God told Abram He would make him a great nation; “I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing.” So by faith, Abram left the popular plan and followed God’s plan. God showed Abram Canaan and promised that land to his descendants, however Abram struggled in his walk and sidestepped God’s plan with his own when things got difficult. But God brought him back to where he would trust in God’s promises again.
The world’s plan stemmed from sin and pride but its end was confusion. Abram’s plan stemmed from changes in his situation and wanting to fix it, but its end almost cost him dearly. God’s plan however, is neither affected by sin nor situations. God’s plan is ultimately for your benefit and will see it through. He desires to free you from destructive plans that may lead you in the wrong direction and keep you from following after Him. Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection was powerful in defeat of Satan’s plan. In Jesus, God’s plan is fulfilled. There is peace, a future, and a hope to all who trust in Him. Let us be a people who would seek out and walk in the plans of God. He has a plan for you!
“A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.” Prov 16:9