In Advance
“I would have attended had I known about the picnic in advance, but I made other plans.”
“Let’s make reservations in advance because that restaurant fills up fast.”
“I’ll pay you in advance and then pick up the product later.”
In advance: ahead of time.
We want to plan and have our ducks in a row. We don’t like missing out and we want to be prepared. We like to have it all together. Sound familiar?
I don’t know about you, but each morning, I look at my phone and paper calendars to see what the day holds. I even scan the week or month to know if I need to prepare for a meeting, take food to a gathering, or pay a bill. Sometimes, my calendar squares are blank, and I think about how I want to use free days–start or finish a project, or maybe, call a friend.Whether my schedule is planned, filled, or free--or if I’m caught by surprise--I know in advance that I can count on certain promises. Take a look. Share on X
I know I will have a lamp for my footsteps and a light for my path, so I know which way to go. (Psalm 119:105).
I know even if I spend a day alone, I’m not alone. (Hebrews 13:5)
I know if I’m quiet enough, God will speak to me with encouragement or direction. (Jeremiah 29:12-13)
I know God will provide what I need, not necessarily what I want or would like. (Philippians 4:19)
I know that if I have a task, challenge, or unexpected event, He will give me grace and equip me for everything He calls me to do. (2Corinthians 9:8)
I know God loves me. (1 John 3:1)
I know whether my day is easy or hard, God is faithful. (Psalm 119:90)
I know if I’m anxious, He offers me peace. I just need to focus on Him and accept it. (Isaiah 26:3)
I know if I face a decision or dilemma, He will give me wisdom if I ask. (James 1:5)
Do you have plans today? Just trying to keep your ducks in row? Maybe you are uncertain or waiting on a call to confirm an activity. Or you have a blank square on your calendar. Today will be a good day because we know in advance what can be ours. 
“Advance” also means to move forward in a purposeful way. Look at the promises again; we can.
What about you? Do you have a promise you claim in advance each morning?
The Conversation
I’m so thankful to have God direct my days. Sometimes the confusion and to-do list is more than I can handle. His wisdom calms anxiety and brings peace and organization.
We do fret and worry over many things, don’t we. Your post reminds me to take a step back and trust our Savior who orders our steps according to His will.
Marilyn, what a great reminder of the way God cares for us each day. Thank you!
I guess I’m an “in avance” type person. Waiting until the last minute (procrastination) creates pressure and stress. I try to avoid that by beind a “do ahead” person. Enjoyed your message and the encouraging scripture.
It comforts me to be able to surrender my daily calendar to God, for Him to fill as needed. Thanks Marilyn.