An Expected End
Jeremiah 29:11 – “‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you,’ saith the LORD, ‘thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.'”
Originally, I had planned to share with you all some other passage from 1 Samuel, but today, I was met with this verse in one of my devotionals. It is an amazing and beautiful verse that reminded me of a memory that I had before I moved to Maryland for an internship with the National Institutes of Health. The memory is of my father telling me this verse before leaving as my parents dropped me off here in Maryland. I don’t remember when it was or the circumstances around it except that he was saying this to me to bring me comfort, knowing that I would be here in this new place on my own – a new adventure and a new path. This verse brought so much encouragement because it reminded me that the Lord was directing my steps and was leading me to what would be best for me and His glory.
This verse hits home again recently because of what is happening to one of my close high school friends. He was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 brain cancer. Now, the doctors arent even sure if it is malignant or not, but whatever the case, it is still shocking news that will drive a person to think about eternity. But knowing that this is a situation that nobody would wish on themselves, it gets you to think about how you would find encouragement at a time like this. I find that this verse is also a great encouragement for those in trying times. \
We must always remember that the Lord is guiding and directing our steps. In this verse, the word thoughts can be interchanged with plans, as some versions translate it. The Lord has plans for us that may at first seem evil, horrible, and downright mean, but His plans and thoughts for us are always for peace to give us a wonderful outcome in the end. This verse is just a wonderful reminder to us that as disciples of Jesus Christ, God will always work out for good all situations for them that love Him. Do not doubt your Lord but place your trust in Him, knowing that He will take care of every situation according to His purposes.
becomingadisciple 
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