Three Reasons You Might Be Too Smart for God’s Good

If I’m being real, I like calling the shots.. Knowing what’s next, when it’s next, and even how it all plays out. But then life throws a curveball - that is, something I didn’t plan, didn’t expect, and definitely didn’t want - and my thoughts turn inward toward self-preservation:

Fear: What will happen to me?

Frustration: Why is this happening to me?

Confusion: How did this happen to me?

Doubt: Where is my peace?

If you’re reading this, chances are you know this pattern. You lean into your own understanding first when things go sideways.

But here’s the brutal truth: you might just be a little too smart for God’s good.

Be honest with yourself

1. You need answers - fast. When life doesn’t make sense, you want solutions and you want them on your timetable. You believe God can help. You do. However, your first instinct is to figure it out yourself. Waiting on Him feels slow, mysterious and quite frankly, a little frustrating.

If I’m honest, my default is to fix it first and pray later. I map out every possible solution before I even think to invite God into it. I know, that’s me laying it out there, but stay with me here. .

2. You’ve been hurt by God’s people. We’re flawed. And when people in God’s church hurt us, we can mistakenly chalk it up to God Himself letting us down. Instead of seeing the flaw in the human, we distance ourselves from the Divine. We build walls to protect ourselves. We have to know though that in doing so, we block out healing and comfort too.

3. You’re frustrated by God’s silence. You prayed. You waited. And… nothing.

No dramatic rescue.

No instant fix. Just silence.

That quiet can hurt, and disappointment can harden your heart. Instead of trusting God’s bigger plan, you default to doing life your way. Why? Because at least it feels controlled.

Here’s the truth: our natural instinct is to protect ourselves when life messes up. I at least know this about myself. I’m not saying God caused your pain, disappointment or confusion. Not at all. What I am saying is: He’s always working behind the scenes for good for those who love Him and align their hearts with His purpose. (See Rom. 8:28.)

So, here’s the challenge: stop leaning solely on you. How’s that been working? Maybe it works... for now. But what if releasing control opened the door to places you never imagined? Trust that God’s good is better than yours.

Peace and love to you. ~ Paul

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” - Martin Luther King Jr.

Reflection: When life doesn’t go as planned, do you first lean on your own understanding, or wait for God’s timing? How have past hurts or disappointments shaped your trust in God’s goodness?