So, there I was re-reading my previous blogs when I discovered that I used the same verse two blogs in a row. Apparently, my editorial skills are not quite that sharp yet. Getting past my feelings of sheepishness, I began to analyze how that happened. You know, that verse is pretty pertinent for what I'm facing in a lot of areas of my life right now. Finances, career, parenting, you name it and I can find a way in which this verse brings inspiration. Let's take a look.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you, not to harm you; plans for a hope and a future."
Just say that out loud a few times. Think about each phrase between the commas. Chew on those for a moment. This is really remarkable! This verse really speaks to me that no matter what it is I worry about--and I do worry more than I should--it is going to be ok. The situation might not be what I picture and when I picture it to be, but it is going to be perfect because it is meant for not only my good, but for my prosperity. That means the same for you. No matter what your facing, it is meant for your prosperity and it is personalized for you from God. They're God's plans. We don't have to come up with them on our own. We don't have to strategize. We just have to turn to God and ask Him to reveal them to us. There is no burden on us other than to trust the Lord. I often get bogged down, worrying about what the future holds and if I'll survive it. What a waste of energy! Jeremiah 29:11 promises that if I will get out of the way and let Him puts His plans in motion, not only will I be ok, but I'll prosper and have a future. Look out Joel Osteen!
But Garrett, what does that look like? How do I apply that? Oh what, you think just because I'm writing this blog that I have the answers? You'd think. Unfortunately, I don't. But, fret not. I do have something to share that might, at least, point you in the right direction.
I can't tell you what trusting God and letting Him institute His plans, because that is really between you and Him. But, I can tell you what God's been laying on my heart. I waste a lot of time and mental energy trying to solve the puzzle of my future. You know, I could be using that energy to mediate on Jesus' words, praying for other people in my life, and asking God to show me how I can just love people more. I think that last one is really the key and maybe the second to last one because of how it feeds into focusing on others. I really think there is something big disguised in that small package (focus Austin). What are we really here for? Yea, I know the Sunday School answers. But really think about it for a second.
Done? Here's what I think. It is truly to love God and love others. If we love God, we obey Him. He commands us to love others as yourself. So, by loving others, we love God. Loving others as yourself means exactly what it says. It can look like serving and demonstrating compassion toward them. It can also be seen in giving and maintaining relationships.
So, short story long. Don't waste your time worrying about what the future holds. Instead, spend that time asking God to show you how to love others, especially those whom you don't find it natural and easy to love. Then, you won't be getting in the way of the future plans.
God bless you. Hager out!
4 comments:
I am breaking the rules...try to stop me. I like the post. Deep, meaningful and very accurate. Truer words have never been spoken...nicely done. ARSM out!
Of course you can comment on the blog Austin. I meant no comments about my failure to notice that I'd repeated the same verse twice. I welcome your comments.
Well since you bring it up... if you blogged more regularly (say like daily) you might be able to remember what your last blog was about and prevent doubling up like this again. Unacceptable. Get back in your cage and write another post.
Nice post! I thought you were right on point. Too much time trying to live in the future robs us of living in the present. Keep 'em coming!
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