A Sure Promise

"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 (NIV)

Some Christians often think that God turns His back on them when they go through difficult times. They question His promises. Seeing that everything is going well for others, they wonder what they have done to God to sink so low. Those who keep the faith and believe that God will come to their aid rely on this verse for courage.

In reality, this verse doesn't really convey what we think it means. By understanding Jeremiah's prophecies and reading the entire chapter, especially verse 10, we see that God further encourages and comforts the people of Israel to endure the 70 years of exile because He has a specific reason for allowing it. He has a plan for them, and these 70 years of exile are part of that plan of peace and prosperity. Only at the end of these years will He visit them.

Whatever situation you are facing right now, know that it is likely part of God's plan to give you a better life. But for now, He is allowing you to go through this stage of your life to lead you to seek Him with all your heart and desire His presence 24/7. This promise is not meant to eliminate all your difficulties, but to assure you that God has a specific plan for you. At the end of this stage, He will visit you and offer you hope and a future.

May God's grace and peace be with you all.