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| photo credit http://www.lovethispic.com/image/35759/i-know-the-plans-i-have-for-you |
This quote in the photo is used often in Christian circles. Many times we hear this and we instantly think of children or young adults and we use it to encourage them. I think that is awesome and they need us to support them and give them affirmations that propel them on their journies. But, what about the rest of us?
I think sometimes as we get older and move toward middle age, we feel like there is nothing left for us. We think we are done. We have raised our kids, our marriages are stable, our jobs are stable. Life feels routine aka boring. We feel maybe as if we are not sure where we belong anymore. I want to say to those of us in our 40s 50s 60s and even beyond, you are not forgotten you still have a place. God's word and this scripture applies to you too. He has a plan. You have a purpose. You are still very important to the story. It's a great story....and you have a part to play. You may feel overlooked by your family, friends, and even your church at times, but hold on to this promise.....Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord., "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (NIV). Did you notice that word hidden right in the middle? DECLARES.....it is a declaration for your life! When we declare something.....it is important, it means something to both the speaker and to the listener. It is important to both parties. The speaker is emphatic about what they are saying. In this case it is God speaking to you. He feels it deeply. He is emphatic. He wants you to understand, that He has a plan! You may not feel like you have a place, like your job is over, and you feel lifeless, stagnant, unimportant.It may be as black as night around you right now. It may feel like you are drowning under sorrow. You may feel like you cannot breathe you are so overwhelmed today with emotions..... But, my friend, take courage! God has a plan and a purpose. You are not forgotten.
This verse in Jeremiah applies to ALL of us. YOU have a purpose regardless of age, regardless of where you have failed, God STILL has a purpose and a plan for your life.
YOU are NEVER forgotten by Him. You were uniquely designed and wonderfully made with a story to tell.
Ask him what the plan is for you today and then go about looking for the opportunity to enact it.
Keep on walking the journey my friends.....I am right there with you...
Blessings, Regina
