Undo plan B

by Rapha Abreu·December 02, 2024·3 min read

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At times, we will face the opportunity to remain stagnant and stuck, to revisit the past and reopen a wound, or to move forward.

In those moments, we must make an important decision: to step into the unknown and embrace incredible new experiences, or to stay in the familiar place of comfort, not moving toward God’s promises.

Sink the second option

You’ve probably heard the expression “Burn the ships.” It is linked to Hernán Cortés, who, in 1519, ordered his ships to be burned so his soldiers could not retreat.

We see this concept reflected in several biblical stories, such as in 1 Kings 19. The prophet Elijah finds Elisha and calls him to be his successor. In response, Elisha performs a radical act: he slaughters the oxen he was using for work and burns the equipment, symbolizing the end of his old life. This act demonstrates his decision to follow God without reservations or plans to return.

That’s what the expression means: having no plan to turn back. Cortés’ soldiers had only one option—to move forward and fight for a better future.

When it comes to following Jesus, we cannot hesitate or keep a backup plan in mind. Instead, we must burn everything that holds us back to make room for what we will receive in our walk with God. Eliminate the plan B.

Trust in God’s guidance

The Bible teaches us in various passages that following God often requires letting go of the past. When we burn our “plows” or sink our “ships”—be it relationships, habits, or old plans—we create space for God to do something new in our lives.

In new places, with new people, and with teachings that shape us in ways we’ve never experienced before.

Elisha’s act is a powerful example of how obedience to God involves sacrifice. Jesus reinforces this idea in Luke 9:62, saying that anyone who puts their hand to the plow and looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God. Elisha left behind his stability to follow God’s call, trusting completely in His purpose. He stepped into the unknown with confidence because he deeply trusted the One who called him.

Know and follow Him

“Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”
Ephesians 3:20-21

If you know God and understand who He is, then you don’t need to know the path before choosing to follow Him.

Life with God requires surrender and sacrifice. As we devote ourselves to Him, we create room for Him to do infinitely more than what we lay at His feet.

By burning his plows, Elisha not only renounced his past but also demonstrated complete trust in the future God had prepared for him. He left no room for doubts or hesitation.

What do you need to “burn” in your life to follow God completely?
Do not hesitate to follow the Lord!