In this week’s Inner Conditioning Workshop (ICW) Kamustahan, the Santa Barbara group reflected on a timeless truth: God’s plans often look different from ours — and that’s a good thing. Their stories were a mix of detours, delays, and divine surprises, all leading to a deeper faith and greater purpose.

Vincent – The Divine Redirection

“Even when we have our own plans, God often redirects our path. It’s His way of leading us to where we’re truly meant to be.”
Vincent’s journey taught him that God’s “No” is often a “Yes” to something better.

Jean – The Rerouted Journey

“Sometimes, when things don’t last, it’s God telling us: ‘You’re not meant to be there yet.’”

Jean learned that short-lived opportunities aren’t failures — they’re signs that God is moving us to more fertile ground where we can truly grow.

Josh – Passing Without Trying

“I didn’t plan to be a teacher or join the PNP, but I passed the exam anyway. That made me realize God’s plans are bigger than mine.”

Josh’s unexpected success reminded him that God sees the whole picture, even when our view is limited.

Atchmen – Brought Together by Purpose

“Part of God’s plan is for us to meet and be here together. This group is no accident.”

For Atchmen, community is never random — it’s a carefully woven thread in God’s design.

Julroy – Delays as Blessings

“I wanted to achieve things quickly, but injuries and responsibilities slowed me down. Now I see it was a blessing — it led me to public service, which brings me real joy.”

His detour taught him humility, patience, and the fulfillment that comes from serving others.

Amelda – Hope in Exile

Drawing from Jeremiah 29:11, Amelda reminded everyone:

“Even when we feel far from God’s promises, He has plans to bring us back — to heal our hearts and restore our hope.”

She likened life’s struggles to being in exile, and prayer as the path home.

In the SEA Inc. IPAT-SIAD program, we often talk about strategic plans for communities — livelihood projects, governance reforms, capacity-building. But just like in personal life, plans change. A harvest may fail, a leader may step down, funding may be delayed.

These stories from Santa Barbara remind us:

• Flexibility is strength.
• Setbacks are setups for something better.
• The best plans are those aligned with a greater purpose.

IPAT-SIAD thrives when communities learn to adapt, trust the process, and keep moving toward shared goals — much like these individuals trusting God’s timing in their lives.

“Delays are not denials. They are God’s way of preparing you for what’s next.”

From Vincent to Amelda, the message was clear: The road may twist and turn, but when we walk with faith, every step — even the detours — leads us closer to where we are meant to be.