Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/301854
26 Looking back, we can see how much we have accomplished and suffered without even trying or thinking about it, even against our wishes and wills. So often, we give such little thought to what we are doing before it occurs – often times even when it is happening. Looking back, after everything has been carried out, we are amazed and we say, "Why did these things happen to me when I never thought about them or when I thought something complete- ly different would happen?" Clearly, Proverbs 16:9 is true: "In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps," even against our plans and wills. In my understandings, we have no choice when faced with Truth but to agree that our own cleverness and foresight don't guide our lives and actions. God's wonderful power, wisdom, and good- ness not only guide us, He carries us. Only as we look back do we fully recognize how often God was with us when we neither saw his hand nor felt his presence at the time it was happening. Peter said, "He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:7). Looking back on Bryant's time here, it's obvious to me our own lives would prove that God tenderly carries us in his arms. When we look back on how God has led and brought us through so much evil, adversity, and danger, we can clearly see the ever-present goodness of God. His thoughts and His ways are so far above our thoughts, minds, and perception.