“My times are in Your hands!” Psalm 31:15
There is something wonderfully inspiring in the thought, that God has a plan and a purpose for our lives, for each life. We do not come drifting into this world—and do not drift through it like waves on the ocean. We are sent from God, each one of us with a divine plan for his life—something God wants us to do, some place He wants us to fill. All through our lives we are in the hands of God, who chooses our place and orders our circumstances, and makes all things work together for our good—and His glory. J.R. Miller
How often am I tempted to think, “if I were in control, I would have done things differently.” I would not have chosen pain or suffering or darkness or confusion to be a part of my story. If I directed the story of my life, it would be a story of ease, comfort, wealth and the absence of any pain or struggle. But the truth is that I am not wise enough to see what is best for me. I cannot know the future, or God’s greater purpose for these events that He has brought me through. That’s why it’s comforting to know that my days are held in the hand of God.
The ultimate goal of my life is not ease or comfort, but rather to be conformed into the image of God. God does what is necessary to transform me into His image, because He knows that is what’s best for me. He can see the end result, and at times, when necessary, takes me through suffering or struggles in order to achieve that result.
The Hand that created and sustains the world does not make a mistake in the events of my life. I can trust His sovereign plan, assured of His care and love for me. Even when my steps make no sense to me, I know He will continue to direct and guide. If He who did not spare His Son is truly the Lord of my life, I can be confident that He will continue to guide and bless me, and that no event happens by mistake.
“Lord, be pleased to impart unto me, your unworthy servant, this spirit of confidence in You. May I see Your hand in all the events of life—ordering the the minor, as well as in the greater movements of Your Providence. This watching and waiting for the manifestations of Your guardian care—will fill me with thankfulness for all my mercies, and make me patient under all my trials.” (a Puritan prayer)
[copyright, 2010, Emily Schankweiler; A Sacrifice of Praise]
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
oh! i thank the lord for this devotion. its exactly what i needed to hear.during this circumstance that i am experiencing now. i know that i can trust him for he has greater plans for me than my circumstances. the lord is holy. Magnificent is his holy name. Halleluja! Halleluja! Halleluja!
Macci,
I am so glad that God encouraged you. He is great! Continue clinging to Him.
Emily