God’s Plan and Your Turbulent Times
“For I know the plans I have for you”—[this is]
the Lord’s declaration—“plans for [your] welfare,
not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 HCSB
It’s an age-old riddle: Why does God allow us to endure times of uncertainty and pain? After all, since we trust that God is all-powerful, and since we trust that His hand shapes our lives, why doesn’t He simply rescue us—and our loved ones—from all hardship and pain?
God’s Word teaches us again and again that He loves us and wants the best for us. And the Bible also teaches us that God is ever-present and always watchful. So why, we wonder, if God is really so concerned with every detail of our lives, does He permit us to endure emotions like grief, sadness, shame, or fear? And why does He allow tragic circumstances to invade the lives of good people? These questions perplex us, especially when times are tough.
On occasion, all of us face adversity, and throughout life, we all must endure life-changing personal losses that leave us breathless. When we pass through the dark valleys of life, we often ask, “Why me?” Sometimes, of course, the answer is obvious—sometimes we make mistakes, and we must pay for them. But on other occasions, when we have done nothing wrong, we wonder why God allows us to suffer.
Even when we cannot understand God’s plans, we must trust them. And even when we are impatient for our situations to improve, we must trust God’s timing. If we seek to live in accordance with His plan for our lives, we must continue to study His Word (in good times and bad), and we must be watchful for His signs, knowing that in time, He will lead us through the valleys, onward to the mountaintop.
So if you’re enduring tough times, don’t give up and don’t give in. God still has glorious plans for you. So keep your eyes and ears open . . . as well as your heart.
Every misfortune, every failure, every loss may be transformed. God has the power to transform all misfortunes into “God-sends.”
Mrs. Charles E. Cowman
Today’s Prayer
Dear Lord, even when I am discouraged, even when my heart is heavy, I will earnestly seek Your will for my life. You have a plan for me that I can never fully understand. But You understand. And I will trust You today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen
7 Things to Stop! 7 Things to Start! 7 Minutes That Matter Most!
If you're thinking the 7-minute solution to a happier marriage sounds far too simplistic, even a bit crazy, we dare you to read this book. It will revolutionize your marriage. Drawing from an extensive national survey of more than 1300 men and women, best-selling author Steve Arterburn first reveals 7 things you must stop doing that damage your marriage. Second, he presents 7 positive things you must start doing to build a great marriage. But most important, he tells you what to do if your spouse is not willing to do anything. As Arterburn explores those behaviors with real-life stories and biblical insight, you will discover fresh ideas and greater motivation to make your marriage thrive. Finally, Arterburn reveals a final 7 that brings you to the heart of the matter! The 7 minutes that will matter most for any couple, no matter whether you're just thinking of getting married or have been together for many years. Once you get it, you'll never question the 7-minute marriage solution!
Share with your friends