We have all heard Jeremiah 29:11. It is often quoted. It is on artwork. You might even have it as a magnet on your fridge.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
I find it interesting in this season to remember that God is the One Who knows the plans. Lately, I have been reminded that I do not know the plans. Anyone else just wish you could see the grand plan? I’d love to visibly see the master blueprint and know the end from the beginning.
I feel like Paul who stated he saw through the glass dimly. (1 Corinthians 13:12). I can feel so confident in God’s plan, but all I get is one step. And as I step, it seems to be veiled or shrouded. I only have light for this one step.
Recently I planned a trip to Kentucky and Indiana to celebrate Christmas with my kids and attend my son’s wedding shower. I was already about 4 hours into my journey when my phone rang and I was told that a family member was sick and contagious. Christmas plans diverted. Plan B (still unknown at that time) was begun. My entire week was now up for grabs. I didn’t even know where I would be staying that evening at that time.
I began praying, “Lord, You knew this. This is no surprise to You. I’m too far to turn around. What do You want me to do this week?” Each day I saw Him unfold new plans I had not made. It was a wonderful trip – just not anything I had planned. By the end of the week, even the wedding shower had to be cancelled due to illness. BUT GOD!!!
“A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 NKJV
Each step of the way, He directed my steps. I would have never planned a trip to the Midwest during snow season, BUT GOD!!! I was able to spend time with one son and his wife, have an outdoor Christmas 6 feet apart with my other son’s fiancé, have a wonderful family dinner, connect with intercessors for this ministry, visit our Kentucky house of prayer, attend the NW Indiana Pastors Prayer Group and pray with the NWI Regional Watchman. In the end, the trip accomplished more than I could have imagined. To God be the glory!
This experience made me think of all the times I have programmed my time so tightly and programmed God right out of it. How often have I kept my schedule above all else? Where have I been so concerned about my plans that I have not allowed for HIS PLANS to come forth?
God KNOWS the plans. These are the plans for our welfare and good. They are full of life, hope, joy, peace. His ways are not our ways. Will I trust Him and His plans, over my will and my plans?
For 2024 I want HIS plans, not mine. I want to dream with God. What is in Your master plan, Lord? Where do I need to lay aside my plan and pick up Yours? I choose to trust You, Lord.
