How Can I Take Comfort in God’s Plans for My Life?
By Vivian Bricker
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 29:11
Due to living in a fallen world, we are always coming across problems. Problems with work, our relationships, and our health can leave us feeling worn out. It never feels as though we can get a break. Instead of being relieved once one problem is resolved, a hundred new problems replace it. Whenever we are feeling like this, we need to turn to the Lord and know that He has a beautiful plan for our lives.
There have been many times in my life where I don't feel like there is a purpose to the pain I am experiencing—there is only suffering. We are often taught that pain makes us stronger, when sometimes it can actually make us weaker. Every pain, every tear, and every heartache does not lead us to something greater. Instead, it can lead us to meet the end of the road.
Plans we previously had for our lives seem to be non-existent and we don't even know how we are going to make it to the end of the month. When these issues arise, we can find lasting hope and purpose in God. He has great plans for our life. Through the pain, we can see His will more clearly and we take joy in knowing that our suffering is never forgotten by Him.
Recently, I had an issue in my life that God worked through. I thought I was going to have to make a major life change; however, God kept me where I was. He placed me on level ground and told me I was right where He wanted me to be. From that day, I felt the assurance of the Lord. His plans for me would never be sabotaged by anything or anyone, including myself or this season of suffering.
His goodness and his love will ensure all of the plans He has for our lives will be accomplished. Some of them might not be completed in the ways we once thought; however, we can trust in His plans. We might be lacking direction or guidance, but God never does. He will direct and guide each of our steps.
In Jeremiah 29:11, the Lord tells us He already knows the plans He has for us and that these plans will prosper us. They will not harm us in any way. Rather, these plans will give us hope and a future. Whenever we are unsure about the future, we need to rely on God’s plans for our lives.
Your present season of suffering will not endure forever because the Lord has beautiful plans for your future. This future will not harm you nor will it cause you problems. It will only give you hope and surround you with the Lord’s goodness. Choose to live out this truth today by walking confidently in Jesus’ promise.
The plans God has for our lives is far greater than anything we could ever imagine. If you are presently going through a season of suffering, rest in the truth that you will be brought out into a season of joy. Similar to how the physical seasons change, this season of life will change too. The suffering and pain you are experiencing now will not endure forever.
Intersecting Faith & Life:
This season might last for a while, but you can continue to trust God. No matter what season of life we find ourselves in, we can know with confidence that God is working all things out for our good (Romans 8:28). It is not a pleasant season right now; however, God’s plans for your life are still being fulfilled. There is nothing we can do to mess up God’s plans for our lives nor is there any season of life that can separate us from His plans.
God’s plans are already being carried out through our lives. As you are presently in this tough season of life, lean on God. Find support in Him and trust Him with your life. The plans He has for you will prevail and they will be glorious.
“Dear Jesus, I am going through a tough season right now. There only seems to be suffering at every corner. Please Lord, help me to have hope for the plans You have for my life. Bring my heart and mind to meditate on Your plans for my life rather than the tragedies I am currently going through. I know nothing can usurp Your plans for my life. I praise You, Amen.”
- During this present season of suffering, what has the Lord been teaching you?
- God has many plans for your life. Does this bring you a sense of comfort? Why or why not?
- How does knowing that God has plans for your life change your outlook during this present season of life?
Further Reading:
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Psalm 119:76
Romans 8:26-28
Photo Credit: Unsplash/lilartsy
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