“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
One of the most inspiring verses in the Bible, you have probably seen this passage quoted on graduation mugs, paintings, banners, and in sermons. It is found in the Old Testament when God told his people through Jeremiah the prophet, that after a seventy-year period of exile He was going to heroically rescue them. Often I share this verse with a discouraged friend, but admittedly, I forget to add the verses around it that are part of the equation as well. Just after this God says, “Then you will come and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you search for me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:12-13)
If we offer ourselves, our children and our friends the popular verse above and verses that directly follow, we give them a fuller picture of God’s desire and plan for us, not only to trust our future to Him but also to follow after Him. As a hard-working follower of Christ, you can also take a deep breath. Your life is on God’s shoulders, though the call on your life may feel cumbersome at times. This week and always, let’s remember to search for God with all our hearts, through His word, through listening to Him, and through our response of prayer, evangelizing, and serving others. Then, let’s rest in His wonderful plans for our new year, and for eternity!
Dear Lord, Today I realize how thankful I am to know You. You have given me a wonderful plan for my life and I am forever indebted to You for Your plan to prosper me, and to keep me safe in You. Please give me the courage to share this truth with others, and help me to always seek after You and to spend time with You, my wonderful Lord and Savior. Amen.
Take Action
What is one thing you can do today to seek God with all your heart? Leave a comment below to let us know what you choose. How can we pray for you?