Trusting God's Plan
Continuation from yesterday’s daily devotional:
Scripture Reading:
Jeremiah 29:11 ESV - "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."
Reflection:
God’s plans for us are intricate and purposeful. Even when life seems chaotic and uncertain, we can rest assured that God is in control and His intentions are for our well-being. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that God's plans include prosperity, hope, and a future filled with promise. In moments of doubt and confusion, this verse serves as a comforting reminder of God's unwavering faithfulness.
Personal Story:
A few years ago, I found myself at a crossroads in my career. My husband had received a promotion in another state three and a half years prior, and I was left behind in a job that, while stable and well-paying, left me feeling unfulfilled and restless. For three long years, I had been applying for assistant principal positions in both states, which was exhausting.
I prayed for guidance, seeking clarity on the path God wanted me to take. Despite my impatience, I felt a strong urge to trust in God's timing and plan. During this period of waiting, I focused on deepening my relationship with God through prayer, scripture reading, and seeking counsel from trusted friends and mentors.
One day, while listening to a podcast, I heard the name of my husband's state, Oregon, repeated three times right as I turned it on. Taking this as a sign, I decided to take a leap of faith. I accepted a behavioral specialist position in Oregon, which was a step down from my career goals and came with a significant pay cut.
The team in Oregon was amazing, and the work was fulfilling. However, shortly after moving, budget cuts led to me losing my position. Despite this setback, I stood firm on God's word, seeking guidance and trusting in His plan.
Yesterday, I received a call that seemed to confirm God's orchestration behind the scenes. I was offered a behavioral assistant principal position at the very school that had initially bumped me out of my job. Not only did I get my job back, but I also received a promotion to lead the behavioral team.
Looking back, I see how essential it was to trust in God's plan and timing. Had I rushed into a decision out of impatience or clung to my previous stable job, I would have missed out on this incredible opportunity. This experience reinforced my belief that God's plans are always for our good, even when we cannot see the bigger picture. It brought me to a role that ultimately led to greater joy, fulfillment, and professional growth.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for having a perfect plan for my life. Help me to trust in your wisdom and guidance, especially during times of uncertainty. Grant me the patience to wait on your timing and the faith to follow your path. Fill my heart with hope and peace, knowing that your plans are for my welfare and future. Amen.
Action Step:
Take time today to write down any areas of your life where you feel uncertain or anxious about the future. Lift these concerns up to God in prayer, asking for His guidance and trust in His perfect plan. Throughout the day, remind yourself of Jeremiah 29:11 and meditate on its promise.
Affirmation:
I trust in God's perfect plan for my life. His plans are for my good, bringing hope and a future filled with promise.
Discussion Question:
Reflect on a time when trusting in God's plan brought you to a place of unexpected blessing. How did this experience strengthen your faith?
Further Reading:
Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Romans 8:28 KJV: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
Inspirational Quote:
"Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase." – Martin Luther King Jr.
