The Old Testament guides us in Jeremiah 29:4-11 and Proverbs 3:5-7.
As the calendar year comes to a close, we naturally enter a season of reflection. Our reflections of the past year may bring a spectrum of emotions such as: joy, happiness, excitedness, or perhaps, sorrow, disappointment, or defeat. Most likely, these emotions are rooted from major events and experiences. With emotions running high, we all conclude our reflection with a “What’s next?” state of mind–a season of expectancy.
It is in a season of expectancy that we are to practice patience, vigilantly. Every event, every emotion is of the plan of God. Jeremiah 29:4-11 is an illustration of the Lord making promises to relieve the Exiles, in His own time. In conclusion, God promises His people, “When 70 years for Babylon are complete, I will attend to you and will confirm My promise concerning you to restore you to this place. For I know the plans I have for you, plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:10-11.
His plans are not to be understood by man. His plans are more mighty than our imaginations. Seeking to understand the plan of God is not His intention for us. This lesson is taught to us through Proverbs 3:5-7.”Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. Don’t consider yourself to be wise; fear the Lord and turn away from evil.”
Patiently await the Lord to unveil His plan for you. For this plan is far greater than any plan we could possibly create for ourselves.