Jeremiah 29:11

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11


Have you ever had plans for something only to have them have disintegrate completely? I have had one of those weeks, no months, hmmm, maybe years.

My plan for this weekend was to go home to Glennville. I was so excited about witnessing the wedding of a sweet, young friend. I was also planning to spend a few days visiting those that I miss so much and have not seen in two years. But alas, it is not to be. I know in my mind why I cannot go, but my heart is left to grieve and ask why. I have shed more than one tear at my loss and even acted like my two-year old at one point when expressing my 'displeasure'.

I consider myself resilient and hope that is a good quality to have. Therefore, I moved on to PLAN B. Delaney, Michaela and I would spend a couple days with my mom and go to the lake. Well, once again my plan did not work out. The day in Habersham County started with rain, but mom assured me that the sun was shining on Putnam County. Apparently, the rain cloud followed me on that two hour drive, literally and metaphorically. Once the four of us were driving to our fun-filled lake destination it started to rain ever so lightly. We decided since there was no thunder and lightening we were good. We were going to get wet anyway, right? We enjoyed about 15 minutes of 'beach' time and the deluge began.

I was once again disappointed but did give heartfelt thanks to God for the much needed rain. It reminded me to "praise Him in the storm". I am also very grateful to have been able to spend time with my mother.

My thoughts turned to Jeremiah 29:11 and it served as a reminder that my plans don't really matter. I have to seek and follow His will and plans. I guess for now that includes no beach time or vacation. I KNOW His plans are good and my future is in Him, but grow weary of waiting for an answer to my prayers. (Obviously, I am not just talking about a vacation here.) Please don't judge me based on this statement. Surely you have said or thought "God, I will do Your will, just give me the details now and let me know when it will happen." at least once.

I know that He hears my prayers because I have a wonderful, loving husband and the most beautiful, healthy children on earth. I need only look at the prayer requests of others to know how blessed I am.

I have been here before, in God's holding pattern. I thought I had learned all I needed to know; apparently not, for I am still waiting for answers to what I feel are reasonable requests-like a job. I am sure the day will come when I look back at this present trial and see how much I learned and how much He provided. Because I will not stay in this valley forever for He has plans for me and I have hope!