Download Thought for the week – but when Lord? “For I know the plans I have

Thought for the week – but when Lord?
“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 NLT).
When you read this, how do you feel? Do you believe this or does it sound like empty Christian slogans?
If you observe what is happening around you or perhaps to yourself, does this statement give you any
comfort? I think we need to be honest now, Jeremiah was: “Why then does my suffering continue? Why
is my wound so incurable? Your help seems as uncertain as a seasonal brook. It is like a spring that has
gone dry.” (Jer 15:18 NLT). I think it is important that we tell God how we feel and be honest about it.
Having got it off our chests, the question still remains – but when Lord? Well, the fact is that it has
already started! It started the day you accepted Jesus as the Christ into your life. “I assure you, those
who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be
condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life.” (John 5:24 NLT).
So what’s the big deal? Is all that I can look forward to pain and suffering now and forever? What does
the Bible tell us? “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had
disappeared. And the sea was also gone.” and “He will remove all of their sorrows, and there will be no
more death or sorrow or crying or pain. For the old world and its evils are gone forever.” (Rev 21:1 and 4
NLT).
But what about now? It’s tough out here and who is going to help us today!! “So humble yourself under
the mighty power of God, and in his good time he will honor you. Give all your worries and cares to God,
for he cares about what happens to you.” (1 Peter 5:6 NLT).
Enjoy what God gives you whilst here on this earth but don’t let it become your hope and security!
“Enjoy prosperity while you can. But when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. That way
you will realize that nothing is certain in this life.” (Eccl 7:14 NLT).
Have a peaceful week.
Regards
Rene