The Next Right Thing

I like a good plan.

A list, a schedule, a sense of control over the day ahead. It makes me feel steady—like I’m steering the ship.

But if there’s anything I’ve learned (and re-learned) over the years, it’s this: sometimes the day doesn’t unfold according to plan. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things shift. A child needs us longer than expected. A friend calls. A door closes. Or a door opens—and we weren’t even looking for one.

And in those moments, faith whispers: “Just do the next right thing.”

Not the grand plan.
Not the five-year strategy.
Just the next right thing.

It might be a simple act of kindness.
A quiet prayer.
An undone chore.
A moment of rest.
A brave conversation.
Or simply surrendering the to-do list and making room for what God is doing, even if we can’t see the whole picture.

I’m learning (again) to hold my plans loosely—not because planning is wrong, but because faith invites flexibility. It invites us to trust that even when things shift, we are not off-course. Sometimes, what feels like a detour is really the point.

So today, if your day doesn't go the way you hoped, if the list doesn't get done, if your rhythm feels off—pause. Breathe. Ask yourself:

What is the next right thing?

Then do just that. With grace. With faith. With open hands.

“We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.” — Proverbs 16:9 NLT)