Daily Delight
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for wholeness and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." -Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)
Whenever I consider this verse, I am filled with conviction. These are words passed from Jeremiah the prophet to exiled people—priests, prophets, elders, and all those alongside them. They were people thrust from their homes in Jerusalem and exiled to an unfamiliar land, Babylon. For many of us, there is a significant connotation surrounding the word ‘home’. In the midst of their chaos, these people likely felt betrayed, confused, scared, fearful, angry, bitter, hopeless, and very likely, homeless. The comfort of something they knew so well—the memories made, nights passed, family dynamic—all contained within their dwelling is all but a memory in their mind as their physical selves have been transplanted to a place that doesn’t evoke the same idea of a ‘home’.
Whenever I think towards the future, I do not consider the chance of being exiled. I do not think of praying to God for finding welfare. I certainly do not consider hopelessness and evil.
Truth was spoken through Jeremiah, to encourage the exiles and dissuade them of false prophecies to come. Yet, whenever I consider my future, where is my truth?
“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” -Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)
I am so guilty of looking to the future, my idea of the future, and discrediting what God has set for me. There are cracks and flaws in the ideas and aspirations built in my mind. Can we truly contend with a plan of wholeness, a perfect, complete future, and hope for that path? I do not glorify God with these wandering ideas. There is no revelation to ask for counseling from the Prince of Peace. When we consider what is ahead of us, let us seek the truth of the Bible. His declaration is voiced. This is His truth poured out unto the exiles, a guide for their days to come. Know that He will guide you also.
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Photo: @byhannahrose
About the Author
Samantha Brooks
≫ ≫ Samantha is a native North Carolinian studying Communications-PR. She loves coffee, people, and the joy that worship brings. In her free time, Samantha loves to write and paint. Her very favorite bible verse is Psalm 139:14: I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.