God’s Plans

April 22nd – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

1 Thessalonians 5:18

With spring in the air I can’t wait to clean out my flower beds replacing the dead with new, all in the hopes of a beautiful garden to enjoy all season long. Yet in the amidst of my anticipation, I would do well to remember the wisdom of Paul who urges me to give thanks in all circumstances. Just as a gardener remains grateful regardless of the size of the harvest, I too need to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in both abundance and scarcity. For in every seed sown and every bud that blooms, there lies an opportunity to offer thanks to God, the ultimate Gardener of our lives. Whether the yield be abundant or modest, let us rejoice in the privilege of witnessing growth and transformation. Even when the storms threaten our gardens, we can find comfort in the assurance that God works all things together for our good. Therefore, as we tend to the gardens of our lives, may our hearts overflow with gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us, knowing that every season serves a purpose in His divine plan.

April 22nd – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Read More »

April20th – James 5:7

James 5:7

Waiting for spring takes great patience, as we wait for the warmth of the sun and the beautiful colors of blooming flowers and trees. Yet just as the changing seasons do so gradually, so too does God’s plan for our lives take shape in His perfect timing. In James 5:7, we are reminded of the importance of patience as we await the fulfillment of God’s promises. Like seeds planted in fertile soil, our dreams and desires require time to take root and grow. So today, let us cultivate patience as we trust in God’s sovereignty and His unwavering faithfulness. And let us embrace the season of waiting with a heart of gratitude, knowing that each moment brings us closer to the realization of the Lord’s purpose for our lives. Because as we surrender our timelines to His divine wisdom, we’ll find peace in the certainty that His plan is always greater than our own. With unwavering faith and steadfast trust, we can navigate the journey ahead. And do so trusting in God’s perfect timing, knowing all things will unfold according to His perfect will.

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March 3rd – Matthew 26:39

Matthew 26:39

The Garden of Gethsemane, known for its olive trees, was a place of pressing both for olives and Jesus Himself. For it is there where, in His humanity, our Savior grappled with the weight of what He was about to endure. So much so, that He sweat drops of His precious blood. Yet also in this garden of pressing, Jesus demonstrated His complete submission to the Father’s will, showing us the perfect example of obedience and surrender for all time. Because despite His incredible agony Jesus declared, “Not as I will, but as You will.” This amazing sweet surrender of our Lord, echoes through the ages. It stands as a beautiful reminder of the importance of submitting our own will to God’s divine purpose. As we reflect on Jesus’ surrender, we are brought to our knees in humility and gratitude at His sacrificial love. A  love so deep, Jesus was willing to endure unimaginable suffering for our sake. With hearts overflowing with love and thankfulness, let us follow His example and surrender our own wills to God. Trusting in His perfect plan and finding strength in His unfailing love.

March 3rd – Matthew 26:39 Read More »

February 17th – Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28

Life is hard. Each new day comes with its own set of challenges. And when we are in a season of waiting on God, the trials seem that much more difficult. But no matter what we face this side of heaven, God assures us His love will never waiver and He is always in control. This wonderful promise serves as a lighthouse of hope in the storm, reminding us that God works all things together for our good. His love sustains us, guiding us through the darkest valleys and lifting us in times of despair. Though we may not understand the reasons behind our struggles, we can trust in God’s perfect plan and His deep love for us. Even in our weakest moments, His love remains steadfast, offering comfort and strength to persevere. As we navigate through life’s uncertainties, we find comfort knowing that God’s love is our anchor, grounding us in His promises and guiding us towards a future filled with hope. In every trial and challenge, His love sustains us, empowering us to overcome and emerge stronger than before.

February 17th – Romans 8:28 Read More »

January 4th – Jeremiah 29:11

Jeremiah 29:11

Facing the unknown of a new year can be daunting. Yet when we walk into the future hand in hand with God, we have no need to worry. For He is in complete control of all things, seen and unseen. And as Jeremiah tells us, God’s plans for us are brimming with hope and purpose. All we have to do is trust Him in all things. But trusting God’s plans can be challenging. Because it often requires letting go of our own desires and timelines. Yet in the difficulty of surrender, we find that His path, though not always easy, is always the best. And by opening our hearts to the opportunities He has in store, we step into a journey marked by hope, purpose, and the unwavering assurance that His plan is one of prosperity and a flourishing life. So even though we may not know what the new year holds, we can face every twist and turn with confidence. Because God’s purpose will unfold with a wisdom that leads to ultimate goodness and fulfillment.

 

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August 22nd – Colossians 1:27

Colossians 1:27

To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

The mystery of Christ is about how Jesus, who is both God and human, came to save us from our sin and reconcile us back to Himself. All stemming from God’s great love available to everyone, everywhere, at anytime. Knowing this prompts us to live with a sense of divine purpose. For our lives are a vessel for Christ’s light to shine through us to a darkened world. And by drawing upon the strength, wisdom, and love of Jesus, we can make a positive impact. How? By reflecting the grace and love that Christ shows us. In a world filled with division, anger, and uncertainty, this verse empowers us to live with confidence and purpose. Because we have the assurance that the presence of Christ within us is the source of our ultimate hope and transformation. So spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. Encourage others to become a valuable part of God’s family. And live each day with the hope and anticipation of the un folding of God’s glorious plans!

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May 28th – Romans 8:31

Romans 8:31

How many times as kids when we got into a scuffle did we hear, “Oh yeah? You and what army?” I imagine that’s what the Philistines thought when a young David challenged the mighty Goliath. But what they failed to realize is that God was all the army David needed. And He’s all the protection we need as well. Because for those who love Him, God gives the backing and favor of the ultimate power in the universe. One absolutely no one nor nothing can stand against. So no matter the challenges, adversaries, or obstacles we may face in life, we can have confidence in God’s ability to help us overcome them. For with God as our ally, we can have assurance of ultimate victory. Now that doesn’t mean we’ll never face difficulties or opposition, but rather that nothing can ultimately triumph over God’s purposes and plans for our lives.

May 28th – Romans 8:31 Read More »

March 14th – Proverbs 16:3

Proverbs 16:3

We all make plans for our lives. Some work out better then we could have hoped, others leave us shaking our heads wondering what in the world we were thinking. But although we can try our best to see that our plans will come to fruition, God always has the final say. And it’s a blessing that He does. Because God knows us better than we know ourselves. And unlike us, can see from the beginning to the end. So instead of going it alone we need to give our plans to God. Praying for Him to guide and give us wisdom to proceed with them. And to accept if His answer is no. For God wants to save us from heartache and pain. So if our way isn’t the right way, He will show us a better way. Our heavenly Father only wants the best for us. So we can lay our plans at His feet. Believing in full faith that if it is His will, God will see it done.

March 14th – Proverbs 16:3 Read More »

July 7th – 1 Chronicles 12:40

1 Chronicles 12:40

God knows the plans He has for us. Wonderful, glorious plans. And just like He did with David, God He will send us helpers to see those plans done. People to strengthen, support, challenge, guide, protect, encourage, and love us. From Jonathon, the son of David’s greatest enemy, to men who would eagerly give their lives for their king, God provided mighty friends to help David fulfill what the Lord intended. And we can rejoice because He’ll do the same for us. Life can be hard, and at times lonely. But God never intends our spiritual walk to be one of solitude. We were created for fellowship with both Him and others. As such, we all need the love and support of godly friends. And if we let Him, God promises to place in our lives the people we need to accomplish the marvelous purpose He has for each of us.

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May 12th – Proverbs 16:9

Proverbs 16:9

Do you ever wonder if what you’re doing is what God wants you to be doing? If we’re following the leading of the Holy Spirit instead of our own, we can have confidence that we are acting in God’s time and with His purpose. Better yet, we can trust that if God wills it, His power will open the doors to make it happen. As we commit ourselves to our Heavenly Father, we know He will lead us day by day and His plans will prevail. Look at the apostle Paul. He had his own ideas and plans, yet he was always willing to instead follow the Lord. And look at the amazing things that resulted in Paul’s obedience! Have you submitted to the Lord your willingness to be open to whatever opportunities He gives you? Are willing to follow the Spirit wherever He leads?

May 12th – Proverbs 16:9 Read More »