We all have dreams and plans for our lives, but what happens when those dreams don’t unfold as we envisioned? It can be heartbreaking to let go of hopes and aspirations, especially when they’ve been a significant part of who we are. Yet, as believers, we’re called to trust in God’s greater plan—a plan that often looks different from what we had imagined. In this blog, we’ll explore the journey of grieving unmet dreams and finding peace in God’s direction, even when it’s not what we initially hoped for.

I have been mourning and grieving for a life that I have dreamed about since a child. I am in a place where I had to release certain dreams and lifestyles. It hurts but I have to trust that God knows what is best for me. He is the Creator and has written out the plan before I was thought of. I have no idea what is in store but as I grow closer to Him and reflect on the past, I see that He always has something better for me.

The Pain of Letting Go:

Letting go of dreams can feel like losing a part of ourselves. It’s okay to grieve these losses and to acknowledge the pain that comes with unmet expectations. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God understands our pain and is with us in our grieving process. One thing I have experienced in this time is how everything aligns just right, the people with encouraging words, the movies, the sermons, and activities that sprinkle His truths in my heart that are comforting and reassuring. Learning how to let go is challenging and God knows that and He has you covered with His love and comfort, you just have to be open to seeing and hearing Him.

Trusting in God’s Greater Plan:

Proverbs 16:9 tells us, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” While we may have our hearts set on a particular path, God often has a different route in mind—one that leads to something far greater than we could have imagined. Trusting in His plan requires faith, especially when it feels like we’re walking in the dark, but we can be assured that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). As I read through His word, I find myself in so many of the people’s stories and see how God carries them and provides.

Think about it, we have Abraham and Sarah who were blessed with a child in their old age but became the father of many nations. There is Joseph who had brothers that were envious and jealous, tried to kill him, sold him. He was imprisoned, but God elevated him with power that not only saved Egypt from famine but also reconciled with his family, and his leadership preserved the lineage of Israel. There is Ruth who lost her husband, facing poverty and uncertainty but received a kinsman redeemer and being a part of the lineage of Jesus. Hannah, a closed womb and taunting, was blessed with a child that she offered to the Lord and then was blessed with 5 more! There are many more to glean from that shows us God wants the best for us we just have to trust in Him and believe that He is an on-time God.

Finding Peace in Surrender:

Surrendering our dreams to God isn’t easy, but it’s a step toward finding true peace. When we let go of our need to control every outcome, we make room for God to work in ways we never thought possible. This surrender doesn’t mean giving up; it means trusting that God is orchestrating something beautiful in our lives, even if we can’t see it yet. During this season, the question that stays in my heart is, “Am I not enough?” I have to remind myself that anything I crave or dream about can become an idol and I don’t want that. I have repeat to myself that the joy of the Lord is my strength, not a job, a lifestyle, etc. Finding biblical truths to tell yourself will elevate your faith allowing the peace of God to fill your heart. I wrote a blog called The Art of Letting Go, check it out.

Redefining Success:

Society often defines success by personal achievements and fulfilled dreams. However, God’s definition of success is rooted in our obedience and faithfulness to Him. Romans 8:28 reminds us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Our true success lies in following God’s purpose for our lives, even when it looks different from our own plans. Learning this truth blew my mind. I had to unlearn the culture’s way and surrender to His way. I didn’t want to please man anymore or self. It is challenging though; the culture stays in our face with its “rules” and standards. People and friends buying into it and speaking it to you as if it is the truth. I am still growing in not being offended when people say things that attack me. The enemy knows how to hurt me and I am working on not allowing that to shape my reactions, feelings, or beliefs.

Moving Forward with Hope:

As we move forward, we can do so with hope. Jeremiah 29:11 reassures us that God’s plans for us are “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Even when we have to let go of our own dreams, God replaces them with His perfect plan. Embracing this truth allows us to step into our future with confidence, knowing that God is leading the way.

Reflection and Action:

• Reflection Question: How has letting go of your own plans and dreams challenged or deepened your faith in God’s direction?
• Action Question: What is one practical step you can take today to trust God’s plan, even when it differs from your own dreams?

Letting go of our dreams is never easy, but when we trust God’s plan, we open ourselves up to the incredible blessings He has in store for us. Whether you’re currently in a season of letting go or simply preparing for whatever God has next, remember that His plans are always for your good. Keep moving forward with faith, and watch how God turns your detours into your destiny.

I am looking forward to all God has for me and not limiting Him or what He can do!

You might be grieving hopes and dreams too, feel free to reach out to me for support.

Let’s Pray

Heavenly Father,
We come before You with hearts that sometimes struggle to understand Your ways. We know that Your thoughts are higher than our thoughts and Your ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Lord, help us to trust in the plans You have for us, plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

When we face moments of disappointment and grief over unfulfilled dreams, remind us that You are near to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Give us the courage to surrender our desires to You, knowing that You work all things together for the good of those who love You and are called according to Your purpose (Romans 8:28).

Lord, help us to find peace in letting go, and give us the faith to believe that You are leading us toward something greater than we could ever imagine. As we delight ourselves in You, may You align our hearts with Your will and give us the desires of our hearts that reflect Your perfect plan (Psalm 37:4).

Thank You for being our guide and our strength, even when the path ahead is unclear. We trust You, Lord, and we ask that You continue to mold us into the people You have created us to be, for Your glory and our good. In Jesus’ name, we pray.

Amen.

---

SHE SITS AT HIS FEET with CicelyRenee

Read the Bible With Me

https://cicelyrenee.myflodesk.com/ssahfbiblechallenge

She Sits At His Feet Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/541125494440902

Creative Wellness Project Website https://creativewellnessproject.com/

//Websites

Shop Books and Gifts CicelyRenee https://cicelyrenee.com/ 

Blog: http://shesitsathisfeet.com

Buy Me Coffee https://www.buymeacoffee.com/CicelyRenee

//Resources:

Skillshare: https://www.skillshare.com/en/r/profile/Cicely-Carr/575343?gr_tch_ref=on&gr_trp=on 

I teach on Outschool: https://outschool.com/teachers/Cicely-Carr?usid=vr82ksbU&signup=true&authTrigger=follow_teacher&utm_campaign=share_leader_link 

Pen.Tips Referral Get $5 off https://app.bubblehouse.com/refer/20381c0997010001/

//About Me

CicelyRenee is a creative, author, artist, educator, and entrepreneur. 

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@cicelyrenee 

IG: https://www.instagram.com/_shesitsathisfeet_

This is not a sponsored post but there are affiliate links that if you click, I will get some change! Thank you!