We all know that there is a master plan for the world, and we believe that we have free will. The truth is, the only free will that we actually have is our response to our destiny. For example, when something in our day goes wrong, how we respond to the situation is our free will, but the fact that something is going to go wrong is out of our control.
There is a story in the Talmud of Shlomo Hamelech who wished to save two of his servants from the angel of death after discovering that their time on earth was up. Shlomo Hamelech sent them to the city of Loz, because in that place the angel of death can’t do his job. The king said a name of Hashem and his servants arrived there in a second. The next day the King meets the angel of death and asked him why he seemed so happy? The angel explained that his mission was to take the souls of the king's servants by the gates of the city Loz, but he had no way to get them there. Thanks to the king, he was able to accomplish his mission easily. Even the wisest of all men can’t beat the system, and their efforts may just be playing into the master plan instead of following their own path.
We read in this week’s Parasha the journey of Yosef Hatzadik which was filled with challenges and difficulties. Throughout all of his trials and tribulations (makom nisayon) his successes were just within himself. As a slave and as a prisoner in jail, he remained positive and close to Hashem. He didn’t become saddened in his reality but understood it was Hashem’s will and lived up to his potential in each circumstance. He prevailed and merited a special siyata dishmaya and was successful in whatever he did. The moment he tried to employ outside help to change those circumstances, it only backfired and caused him to remain in jail longer.
The challenge in life is how do we respond correctly when we are in the midst of a difficult circumstance? What do we do to help us pass the test? The Pasuk in Mishlei (19-21) that we recite daily in Pesuki Dezimra can guide us in a successful path. "Many are the thoughts in the heart of man, but it is the counsel of Hashem that shall stand forever”. I have noticed many translate the word עצת as "the plan," but that is incorrect, it is “the counsel”. The intention of Shlomo Hamelech is; a person can have many thoughts on what to do but if he is a איש a man that searches to perfect himself, he should listen to the counsel of Hashem.
How do you do that? When you find yourself in a situation where you must make a decision don’t jump to conclusions or simply react. Stop, and think: what does Hashem want from me in this situation? When you are searching to do Hashem’s will, you will have clarity. You will hear a little voice advising you what to do. In the words of the Vilna Gaon: “What Hashem advises in the heart of a person to do will stand up and last.” So strive to follow the desires of Hashem, then listen to your heart and enjoy success. The greatest benefit that you will reap will be the realization that Hashem is with you.
