Golden Nugget:  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 

Daily Verse: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’” declares the Lord, “‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” —Jeremiah 29:11

Daily Message: 
When you think about it, we spend a lot of time making plans—for dinner, work, vacation, everything. Things usually work out as expected when we plan ahead, but some days just don’t go as planned. We’ve all had days like that; no matter how well we planned and prepared, nothing worked out the way we intended.

The author of this verse, the prophet Jeremiah, was writing to a group of people whose plans were not working out at all. They were in exile. Yet he encouraged them to be confident in God’s care, though it could not be readily seen.

God’s plans are always what’s best for us. Our plans are shortsighted and easily collapse when just one detail fails. But God’s plans are based on a firm foundation: his omniscience and promises to us. This gives us hope. Even though we may face adversity, we know that God sees the entire picture, orchestrates the circumstances, and works every detail for our good.

Consider This:

• What areas of your life are not going as you planned?
• What adjustments need to be made?

Take Action:
Think about an important decision or next steps coming up in your life. What if instead of rushing to make those decisions on your own, you involve God in the process? Ask God to direct you with your next steps and guide you in making big life choices.