Have you ever had a plan completely change in an instant? That just happened to me—right in the middle of the Gaither Homecoming Cruise!

As I mentioned in my last newsletter, I had the privilege of serving with Inspiration Travel on the Gaither Homecoming Cruise this past week. My parents loved listening to the Gaithers, especially their homecoming events, which feature many artists. Yes, this was a music-filled cruise.

Throughout the cruise, as I met many artists from the past, I was reminded of how much their music blessed Mom and Dad. They collected Gaither videos and watched them repeatedly over the years. One night, two artists sang two of my dad’s favorite songs. I got a little choked up, remembering him singing along as he worked on projects around the house.

Here are some snapshots.

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​Consider

Not everything goes smoothly on cruises or in life. 😀Merriam-Webster defines pivot as the ability to adapt or improve by adjusting or modifying something.

Here are a few unexpected pivots we faced on the cruise:

• Our whale-watching excursion didn’t happen due to high winds and waves, which made it too dangerous to be out on a catamaran.
• Some teammates couldn’t work the cruise at the last minute, so our remaining team covered their duties.
• Schedule adjustments made on the fly.

While these pivots caused minimal discomfort, some you face may feel weightier. What pivot points did you face this last week? Would you consider them minimal or heavier? How well did you adjust to each pivot?

Reflect

This year, I decided to read the book of Proverbs every month, switching translations with a new month.

With all the pivots in the last few weeks, God reminded me of this truth:

We can make our plans,

but the Lord determines our steps.

Proverbs 16:9 New Living Translation

Some pivots over the last week felt more difficult than others because I was tired and stretched thin. In those moments of frustration, I sensed God reminding me that he directs every step.

Nothing surprises God. I’m so thankful that God knows what we need when we need it.

If you feel weighed down by your recent life pivots, meditate on Proverbs 16:9. Sit with it. What do you need to talk about with God related to these changes?

The more I spend time getting to know the God of the Bible—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—the more I see and trust His goodness. That trust helps me navigate each pivot with a little more grace and patience.

How has God helped you navigate an unexpected pivot recently? Hit reply—I’d love to hear.

🙏🏻 May I pray for you?

Dear God, where would we be without you? Encourage Reader in the pivots they face. If they are small, give confidence and grace to adjust quickly. But, if they are weightier, remind Reader of your presence and strength. Show yourself powerful, God, in each direction change. Assure Reader with your peace and calmness. You are good, God. Always and forever. Amen.