“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11. It’s comforting to know that God has a plan for us, for our future, and for our good. However, it is important to recognize the context of this verse.
In chapters before this verse, the prophet Jeremiah is preparing Israel (God’s beloved people) for years of slavery. The Israelites had been living evil and disobedient lives, repeatedly ignoring God’s warnings. Now God’s plan for them is to face 70 years of slavery.
After the Israelites had been exiled, Jeremiah writes chapter 29 as an encouragement from God; “‘The truth is that you will be in Babylon for seventy years. But then I will come and do for you all the good things I have promised, and I will bring you home again. For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the LORD. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look to me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me'” (v. 10-13).
How amazing. After years of complete disobedience and slavery, God is faithful to His beloved people. Do you find yourself in a similar season? Maybe your own disobedience has led you to this season, or maybe you are facing difficulty simply because this is a fallen world. Despite whatever has brought you to this season, God will fulfill His promises.
Remember, God has promised:
Good to you (Romans 8:28)
To go before and with you (Deuteronomy 31:8)
To supply for all your needs (Philippians 4:19)
To give you victory (1 Corinthians 15:57)
That His grace is sufficient for you (2 Corinthians 12:9)
That nothing can ever separate you from His love (Romans 8:38-39)
What else has God promised you?