When Our Plans Aren’t God’s Plans

We all make plans. We work hard, save, and dream about what life could look like if things go the way we envision. But what happens when our plans don’t line up with God’s? Jesus answers this question in the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16–21.

The Rich Fool and the “American Dream”

The man in Jesus’ parable appeared to be a success. He was a farmer who worked hard, produced an abundant harvest, and built bigger barns to store it all. With plenty laid up for years, he decided to retire, relax, and enjoy life.

From the outside, many would say he was living the dream. He wasn’t described as an adulterer, thief, or murderer—just a hardworking man who became wealthy. Yet, Jesus called him a fool. Why? Because his plans weren’t God’s plans. He was “rich in possessions, but not rich toward God.”

The Real Issue: A Matter of the Heart

This parable was told in response to a man asking Jesus to settle a family dispute over inheritance (Luke 12:13–15). Instead of addressing the conflict directly, Jesus exposed the deeper issue: covetousness.

This man thought money would solve his problems, but Jesus reminded him, “a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of things he possesses” (Luke 12:15). The real problem wasn’t the inheritance—it was his view of wealth and where he placed his trust.

Earthly Distractions vs. Eternal Priorities

The rich fool’s mistake was not in planning but in planning without God. He built his life around temporary treasures and forgot eternal ones.

Jesus warned of the danger of being too busy with the things of this world—work, recreation, possessions—while neglecting what matters most. As He said elsewhere: “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:2).

Even good things—such as family, career, and responsibilities—can become distractions if they take precedence over God. As Jesus taught, “He that loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37).

Becoming Rich Toward God

The key to the parable is found in Jesus’ conclusion: the man failed to be rich toward God. True riches are not found in barns, bank accounts, or retirement plans, but in a life anchored in Christ.

Jesus gives us the solution: “Seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added unto you” (Luke 12:31). When God is our greatest treasure, everything else falls into its proper place.

To be rich toward God means:

• Pursuing spiritual things above worldly things.

• Finding joy and fulfillment in Christ, not possessions.

• Living with eternity in view, not just the here and now.

  
  

A Question for Us All

What occupies your thoughts? What consumes your time? Is it the things of God—or the things of this world?

The rich fool’s story is a warning, but also an invitation. Instead of building bigger barns, let’s build stronger faith. Instead of hoarding treasures, let’s lay them up in heaven. Instead of being consumed with our plans, let’s seek God’s plan—and find the true riches only He can give.