Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – May 2, 2016
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
God knows the plans He has for His children—and His plans are good, because God is good.
But a child does not always understand the overall plan, it’s more a realtime experience, enjoyed in the moment—where memories are made. Just as godly parents can be trusted to nurture and care for their child, so our heavenly Father is 100% trustworthy to plan ahead for His children. Especially during uncertain days, we can lean into Christ’s certainty. God opportunities are all around waiting patiently for eyes of faith to lock in on and see the Spirit’s delightful work.
Jeremiah writes much needed encouragement to the community of God’s people held captive by the Babylonians—for exile breeds people desperate for help from heaven—and perseverance grows stronger where a future hope abides. Living in a culture counter to a people’s values and beliefs becomes a test of trust and obedience. Is the Lord still at work when a small group of His followers are surrounded by a mostly secular society? Maybe more so, because the futility of the faithless grows darker in contrast to the loving light of felicity found in faithful living. Like an innovative entrepreneur God capitalizes on uncertain times with the certainty of Christ’s love.
“Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name” (Malachi 3:16).
Though it may be camouflaged in uncertainty, what God opportunity waits to surprise you? Is the Spirit flushing you out to lead at a larger level? Improved leadership skills are developed beyond the pages of a good book discussion—real life is where you apply what you know, and learn what you don’t know. Followers do not expect perfection in a leader, but they do look for a leader who admits and learns from their mistakes. It may be wise to problem solve by including those in the decision making process who are most affected by any new policies and procedures.
Most of all, be intentional in communion with Christ. There is no better way to find the way of God’s will than to hear His heart in His word—the Bible. The Spirit’s message is best discerned by a listening and teachable soul. To better understand your life’s blueprints, invest time with your architect—Jesus Christ. Every detail matters to your Maker—like your wedding day—His plan is customized just for you. You can be certain that your life is an opportunity for the Lord to shine His love through you. By faith, accept the certainty of Christ’s perfect plan—just for you.
“Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us” (Psalm 40:5).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your good plans for me, customized for my needs.Application
What is the Lord teaching me about Himself during my days of uncertainty?Related Reading
Isaiah 43:19, 55:12; Job 8:7; Acts 2:23; Hebrews 11:39-40Post/Tweet today
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