I got a call from a pastor yesterday who wanted me to come speak at a couple of his churches. As I went through my calendar I realized a good portion of my year is already planned out for me. It’s going to be a busy year!
After eliminating Sabbaths when I’m already scheduled at my local church or other churches, weekends when I work, and times I’m away at CME conferences, we finally settled on a couple Sabbaths in June. It’s going to be fun to preach at a couple new places this summer
As I thought about this later I felt overwhelmed by God’s goodness to me. Although, it looks like a busy year ahead, God has filled my calendar with things I enjoy and opportunities to serve. I’m glad He’s in charge, because His plans for me are so much better than I could have on my own.
God promises in Jeremiah 29:11, “I know the plans I have for you…plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God knows every moment of the year ahead, every challenge and opportunity that will come my way. I can trust Him to lead me, because I know He loves me with “an everlasting love.” Jeremiah 31:3.
As I start my journey into 2018 I find comfort in the words of that beautiful hymn, He Leadeth Me. The first stanza goes:
He leadeth me, O blessed thought!
O words with heav’nly comfort fraught!
Whate’er I do, where’er I be
Still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.
It’s wonderful to know it is “Still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.” I’m excited to see what God has had planned for me in the days and weeks ahead. Whatever it is I know it will be good, even if it seems bad at first, because “…in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28.
God has great things in store for you too this year, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I don’t know what the road ahead holds for you, but I do know this – if you let God take the wheel He will never steer you wrong.
God bless and happy travels!