Do you enjoy waiting in lines at the grocery store or the mall? What about waiting in traffic?
Or, on a more serious note, how do you feel when you’re waiting for test results from the doctor?
Let’s face it: waiting–in big or small circumstances–can be hard. And I’ll be the first to admit, I’ve never been much good at it. I’m not the most patient person in the world. I like to take action and get results. I like to plan, and see the plan carried out. And sometimes, I forget that it’s God’s plan for my life that matters. Not mine.
That’s why I love the verse in Jeremiah 29:11:
“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.â€
Because when I remember that, it helps me to be more patient.
And it helps me to trust God’s timing.
When I try to make things turn out how I want, but they don’t, or when I work hard to reach my goals, but I hit roadblocks, I can read that verse in Jeremiah and be assured that God’s is in control. And that it’s His plan for my life that will unfold.
It’s His plan that really matters.
There are times in all of our lives when we’ll experience plans not working out the way we want them to. Maybe we have our heart set on something and it never comes to fruition. Or maybe we have a dream and our dream gets shattered. Or maybe we are trying to get to the finish line and it feels like it’s taking way too long.
If you’re in one of those times right now, be encouraged and know that God’s got it all figured out. Your life–your situation–will work out exactly how it’s supposed to. Even if it’s not happening as fast as you’d like it too. Even if things aren’t falling into place exactly as you’d hoped. Because…
“those who wait for the Lord (who expect, look for, and hope in Him) shall change and renew their strength.†Isaiah 40:31
So keep on waiting, and keep on hoping.
God does know the plans He has for you and your life.
And all His plans will work together for good.