God's Good Plan For Us!

“For each one of us, there is only one thing necessary: to fulfill our own destiny, according to God's will, to be what God wants us to be.”   - Thomas Merton, No Man Is an Island

Plans, plans, plans! From planning a birthday party to starting a business, careful planning is an important part of our lives. Most of us wouldn't even begin to set out on a new venture without making plans, and even backup plans!

Naturally, not everyone feels that plans are necessary. These adventurous, risk-takers like the thrill of flying by the seat of their pants, without a safety net, letting the chips fall where they may! As for the rest of us, we feel safer with a plan of action tucked in our back pockets.

We also acknowledge that plans don't always work out. You know what they say about the best laid plans! Yes, simply because we plan something doesn't necessarily mean that it will work out. Just look back at all of the things you had planned, but fell through for one reason or another.

We don't have a lock on plans, though. Did you know that God has a plan for us, too? It's true! I realize that this isn't something that most of have actually sat down and considered. Maybe it's because we don't think of God as having to make plans. After all, only us silly human-beings do such things.

But, if you think about it you might start to wonder: "What is God's plan for me?" And, if you're one of those critical thinkers, you may even ponder: "How do I know God actually has a plan for me?" and "How can I find out what it is?"

The answers to your questions about God's plan for us is not hidden, or available only to a few, privileged souls. A treasure trove of answers can be found on the pages of your Bible! God has made it very clear for all who care to make the effort to check it out.

1 Thessalonians 5:6-18 is one good example of how God has a plan for all believers. It lays out three activities that are His will (plan) for all believers, no matter the circumstances. We can count on understanding God's plan for us because His Word is absolutely flawless!

We can learn much from following the good example of others. Similarly, if you want a better appreciation of God's plan for us then follow His example. Romans 12:1-2 promises that we will be more prepared to accept His plans when we commit ourselves to God, and not the world.

Then, there's nothing better than prayer to help us grow in understanding of God's will. And while you're at it, pray for God to disclose His plans for others. There's nothing wrong with that! (Philippians 4:6-7)

Finally, I have to mention that sometimes God makes His plans known in other ways, such as: dreams, relationships, and personal situations. Just keep in mind that these can be more subjective and must be examined carefully. Always compare these to what God has said in scripture!

No matter what, you never have to worry about God's plans. Unlike our plans, His never fall apart, or fail to materialize. Nor are they subject to the whims of others, or circumstances out of our control. If we pray, study His Word, and follow His example, He will impart His plans for us in His own time, and His own way.

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 1 Peter 4:2; James 4:8; Jeremiah 29:11; Proverbs 19:21

Prayer: Dear God, I pray for Your  guidance, instruction, strength, and courage in all areas of my life. Reveal Your purpose for me, and help me follow through on it. Amen

God bless you!

Genevieve