In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps. – Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

Every day, we make decisions that affect us now and in the future. I had such a decision to make a year ago. Which calendar or planner would I choose from among the five new ones I had received?

My choice seemed significant after God led me to give up my usual planner in 2023. I had gained such freedom from control. That’s when I developed a daily rhythm of creating images as well as words for Abiding Communications. I wanted to continue surrendering my days to the Lord and relying on the Holy Spirit to guide my endeavors.

The pocket-sized planner I had used in 2024 had pages for 2025. But I had trouble seeing and writing in the small calendar squares. So, I knew I needed something else.

I chose the thin, monthly planner from The Navigators. The planner was still easy to transport, but the pages had bigger squares for each day. I had just enough room to write down appointments, birthdays, holidays, and some notes. But I didn’t have room to fall back into the trap of trying to plan every detail of my days.

I know it might seem odd that I don’t use digital calendars. But in this season of life, I am focused on raising and teaching my children. I spend less time on the computer and more time drawing, painting, and writing by hand.

You might be asking what I did with the other calendars. I gave one to a family member who needed a calendar. I put another one in our study, so we could see the Bible verses it featured. And I hung the floral calendar above my art display stand for creative inspiration.

I attempted to use a lovely, well-designed planner I received to write down blessings or insights I learned from God’s Word each day. But I needed much more space. So, I returned to writing those things in my full-page journals.

When December came, I wondered if I would be able to find another calendar like the one that had worked so well for me in 2025. I was relieved to receive a 2026 calendar just like it from The Navigators. The Bible verse on the front reminds me that God is in control: “My times are in your hands (Psalm 31:15).”

I am grateful that the Lord confirms our steps as He leads us to fulfill His good plan for our lives (Proverbs 16:9, Jeremiah 29:11). Jesus is the best Planner we could ever choose!