FAITH AND FAMILY

The Plan

BY DONNA WHARTENBY

Are you a planner? Do you make A, B, and C plans, like I do? Do your plans always turn out as expected?

Did you know you are a part of a bigger plan? God’s plan.

There’s a reason you are here at this moment in time. You have a purpose, and God has written your life’s plan.

> In Jeremiah 29:11-13, God proclaims "I know the plans I have for you." (NIV) His plans of hope, plans to prosper, and time of prayer and seeking Him are yours.

> Jeremiah 1:5 affirms "Before [God] formed you in the womb [He] knew you, before you were born [He] set you apart." (NIV) He knew you even before you were born.

> And according to Matthew 10:30, God knows the number of hairs on your head.

Your life as a follower of Christ is a part of God’s bigger plan. God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us from our sins and teach us how to live a life pleasing to God.

> Proverbs 16:9 says the Lord establishes our steps. He sent His Holy Spirit to help and guide us on the path straight to Him. Our every step is chosen. "The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand." (Psalm 37:23-24 NIV)

> Proverbs 19:21 affirms the Lord directs our purpose no matter what plans we make.

> Psalm 138:8 tells us "The Lord will work out his plans for my [your] life." (NLT)

God’s plan incorporates His provisions.

> The Women World Leaders verse proclaims "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us." (Ephesians 3:20 ESV)

> John 10:10 tells us Jesus came so we can have life to the fullest.

> God’s power and strength are provided to us, as 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 states "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (NIV)

> And Philippians 4:19 reminds us God will meet our needs according to His plan.

God’s plan promises His faithfulness.

> Hebrews 13:5 tells us God will never leave us or forsake us.

> John 3:16 promises "everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." (CSB)

> Psalm 103:1 assures us God will forgive our sins and heal our diseases.

> He also promises to teach us the way to go and counsel us with His love (Psalms 32:8)

> In 2 Chronicles 7:14, God admonishes, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." (NIV)

> He promises to answer our prayers and be with us wherever we go. Psalm 37:4 professes "He will give you the desires of your heart." (NIV)

> And James 1:17 tells us God never changes.

God’s plan includes His abundant blessings of grace, mercy, peace, strength, rest, hope, salvation, eternal life, His unfailing love, gentleness, wisdom, and so much more.

> 2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us God is able to bless you abundantly, "so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." (NIV)

> the Apostle Paul encourages us in Philippians 1:6, "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion." (NIV)

God’s plan is so much better than anything we can plan for our lives! The Bible gives us this confidence. You can be confident as you pray and ask God today to show you His plan for your life. God’s Word assures us that Every good and perfect gift is from above. (James 1:17 NIV)

Donna grew up in a Christian home and attended weekly church with her family. She and her husband, Keith, have been married for 39 years and have a son. Donna loves singing, traveling, and spending vacations and holidays with her three grandchildren. She is passionate about teaching and facilitates ladies’ Bible studies and small groups. Family is important to her, which is why Donna is delighted to write this Faith and Family column for Voice of Truth magazine.