Have you ever wondered whether where you are right now is part of God’s plan for your life? Maybe you have questioned whether what you have now is the best that is in store for you?
If this is you, I would like to tell you that it is okay. It is okay to wonder and question your life. It is often good to reflect on your life to see if God is still the one in the driving seat of your life.
You may ask, “What does such a life look like?”
The only answer I have is the one I see in God’s Word. A life directed by God may not always look the way you think it should, but when you are treading on His path, you will have peace in spite of any circumstances you face (John 16:33, John 14:27). Just like the seasons of life, you may encounter winters at times, but summer always comes again.
For by me your days will be multiplied, and years will be added to your life. (Proverbs 9:11 ESV)
Therfore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (Ephesians 6:13 NIV)
You may face trying times, but your days of suffering will be few and short ( evil day) and you days of joy will be long and many (your days will be multiplied and years will be added).
When God is writing you story, it will be good. Do not stop reading His story for you as your story is building towards its climax. Do not stop mid-sentence because you do not like the sound of what you are reading. Let Him finish. He knows the ending and He knows how to write a good ending to any chapter you may face.
You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasure of living with you forever. (Psalm 16:11 NLT)
The Word makes it clear that if you will let God, He will show you the way of life. He does not want us to follow paths where He did not meant for us to go. He does not want us to encounter unnecessary pain and trouble. He wants us to dwell in His presence, folded in His Word, joy and purpose for our lives.
When you are taking your steps with God, you will have joy. Circumstances may be overwhelming and even deceiving at times, it may even make you question whether you are in the right place, but when you become still and look beyond your feelings and emotions, you fill find the peace of God inside you. You will find yourself filled with joy as you know that He is still in control and that where you are right now is where He wants you. This is not a reasoning or peace you can give yourself. It can only come from God.
When God makes the plans for your life, it is good. God does not cause bad things to happen to us, but good things. You will find protection, provision, favor, acceptance and joy in Him. As you encounter your winters and dark nights, see them as opportunities to grow in Him. Let Him show you Himself during those times and how He will turn it for your good.
I pray that God may continue to guide you so that you will have peace during your difficult seasons and continually experiencing His presence and the joy that He brings.
Maretha Retief