We are in the midst of a crisis affecting the health and livelihood of countless people. Loved ones have been lost, jobs have been lost, but hope is not lost. As I contemplated what to write for my first post, I glanced across the room at a wall decoration that was made by my mother-in-law. Painted on it is one of my favorite scriptures:
Jeremiah 29:11
I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord.
Plans to prosper you, not to harm you.
Plans to give you a hope and a future.
When the future is uncertain and fear seems to prevail over hope, it is important that we remind ourselves of these three things:
1. God has a plan for every individual. Life is not simply happenstance or circumstance. God knows every detail of your life; the good, the bad and the ugly. The plan that he desires for your life is waiting and available to you.
2. The plan that God has for you is for good and he will not harm you. This does not mean that you won't be harmed, but it will not be his doing. When we walk in the will of God we will always experience his goodness. When the storms of life rage, remember God is good.
3. We have been given a hope and a future through Jesus Christ. The current crisis encompassing the world will come to an end eventually. There is a future beyond COVID-19, there is a future beyond next year, there is a future beyond our earthly life. As store shelves sit empty, as business close, as investors panic and governments convene; remember a glorious future awaits those who call upon the name of Jesus. That is hope that will not disappoint.
Surrounding the scripture that hangs from our dining room wall are pictures taken at some of the happiest moments of my life. They remind me of the goodness of God's plans. Even now I eagerly await what God has for your life and mine should we choose to trust him.
Trusting in God's Providence
Matt Layton
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