In a world characterized by constant change, unexpected disruptions can challenge our carefully laid plans. Recently, our company underwent rapid transformations with the arrival of a new COO and a strategic push for contract expansion. Despite meticulous preparations, a sudden focus on contract expansion affected one of our long standing customers, prompting intense scrutiny from a team of sales professionals. Amidst this, I prepared diligently for an important meeting, only to encounter an unforeseen disruption during my journey. Needless to say, I had to adapt on the go. Join me in reflecting on this experience and discovering how we can navigate unexpected disruptions with faith and resilience. 

Bible Verse: Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."

After weeks of meticulous preparation for an onsite Quarterly Business Review (QBR) with a valued customer in New Jersey, I had everything in place—from booked train tickets to a tailored suit and early morning readiness. However, just 90 minutes into the journey, tragedy struck when someone jumped in front of our train, causing a sudden and indefinite halt. As hours passed onboard the stationary train, my heart went out to the person involved, and I couldn't help but feel the weight of uncertainty about the outcome of my carefully planned meeting. 

Despite my careful planning, the unexpected interruption on the train journey reminded me of Proverbs 16:9, which says, 'In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.' As I sat on the halted train, I realized that even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by unforeseen events. This experience taught me to trust in God's sovereignty, knowing that He guides our paths and has a purpose in every situation, even when our plans are derailed by circumstances beyond our control.

Reflection: Reflect on a time when your plans were unexpectedly interrupted. Consider how it made you feel and what lessons you learned from the experience.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to trust in Your sovereignty even when my plans are disrupted. Guide me to see Your hand at work in every circumstance.

Bible Verse: Psalm 46:1-2 (NIV)

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea."

Amidst the unexpected disruption caused by the train incident and my heart racing, I found solace in the truth of Psalm 46:1-2, which declares, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea." Despite the chaos and uncertainty surrounding me on that train, I held onto the assurance that God was with me, providing refuge and strength in the midst of adversity. This experience reinforced my faith in God's unfailing presence, reminding me that even in the most challenging circumstances, He remains our steadfast anchor.

Reflection: Meditate on God's promise to be with us in times of trouble. How does knowing God is always present give you comfort and assurance?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for being my refuge and strength. Help me to lean on You when life's challenges seem overwhelming. 

Bible Verse: Romans 8:28 (NIV)

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

During the train halt, my mind raced with countless thoughts. I pondered the tragic circumstances of the person struck by the train and wondered what could drive someone to such a desperate act. Amid my selfish frustrations and anger over my disrupted plans, I found comfort in trusting God's goodness. Romans 8:28, came rushing to mind. The verse assures me that He works all things for the good of those who love Him. In the midst of uncertainty, God intervened miraculously. The train operator arranged for another train, enabling us to resume our journey to New Jersey safely.

This experience reminded me that even in uncertain and disappointing times, God is at work behind the scenes, weaving together a bigger story of redemption and purpose.

Reflection: Consider how God can bring good out of unexpected circumstances. Reflect on past experiences where God turned trials into blessings.

Prayer: Lord, I surrender my plans to You, trusting that You work all things together for my good according to Your purpose. 

Bible Verse: Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens."

Despite trusting in God, during this whole situation – I felt uncertain. Mainly due to the fact that I had missed my team lunch and realizing I might not make it to New Jersey for the 2pm Quarterly Business Review (QBR). As the train continued, I considered my options for joining the call remotely using my work laptop and phone's personal wifi. However, the moving train caused internet issues.

At 2pm EST, still on the train, I switched to my backup plan and joined the call, despite intermittent internet. By the time I reached my stop, I had missed the opportunity to get off the train and ended up in New York City. I quickly found another train back to Newark, but faced challenges exiting because the doors refused to open.

After missing my stop twice and realizing I was on a train bound for Washington DC, I decided to stay on that train and return home to Maryland. Reflecting on Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV), which states that there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens, I considered that perhaps I wasn’t meant to be in New Jersey that day. The series of unexpected events, from the initial unfortunate accident that significantly delayed my journey to missing my stops twice, left me unable to fully explain what had happened. Despite the confusion, I chose to trust fully that God knows and orchestrates everything according to His perfect plans. This experience served as a reminder to surrender to God’s timing and trust His guidance, even in moments of uncertainty and unexpected detours.

Reflection: Reflect on the concept of divine timing. How can waiting or delays be an opportunity to grow in faith and character?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to embrace divine timing and find purpose in the pauses of life. Teach me patience and perseverance.

Bible Verse: Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"

After missing my stop twice and finding myself on a train bound for Washington DC, I reflected on Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV), which encourages us to forget the past and embrace the new things God is doing. Despite the unexpected detours and challenges, I chose to let go of frustration and disappointment, finding hope in God's promise of new beginnings. Moving forward, I embraced the journey back home as an opportunity to trust in God's guiding hand and anticipate the new paths He was preparing for me.

Reflection: Reflect on God's promise of new beginnings. How can you let go of the past and embrace the future with hope and trust in God's plan?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your promise of new beginnings. Help me to let go of past disappointments and move forward in faith, knowing You are with me every step of the way.