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 (KJV)
Proverbs 23:18 There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off. (NIV)
Dictionary.com defines the word “expected” in this way: To look forward to; regard as likely to happen; anticipate the occurrence or the coming of:
To expect something is to eagerly anticipate its arrival. As believers, we have an expected end because of God’s word concerning our lives.
God has a beautiful plan and future for everyone who belongs to Him and communicates this to us in different ways. This beautiful plan and future usually manifests itself as desires and dreams. Sometimes, you just have an assurance of a great and bright future ahead of you.
Despite these good and precious promises and assurance, we face difficulties and trials in life that try to weigh us down. While our challenges are real and threaten our dreams, we should not allow them to discourage us.
Firstly, Jesus made it clear that in this world, we would have tribulation. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (NIV)
Secondly, tribulations cannot spoil the great future God has for us if we truly depend on Him.
God also provides clear assurance for us in our trying times as in our two reference scriptures.
For context, in Jeremiah 29, God’s people were in captivity when He made that declaration and 70 years after, they became free as God promised. In Proverbs 23:17-18, evil people were prospering, and God’s word came to reassure His children.
What difficulty are you facing in your life right now? Don’t give up, cry out to God and be rest assured: you have an expected end, a desired haven coming your way. Amen.
Psalm 107:27-30 ….They reeled and staggered like drunkards; they were at their wits’ end. Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he brought them out of their distress. He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed. They were glad when it grew calm, and he guided them to their desired haven. (NIV)
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank you for the wonderful future you have for me. I know I have a beautiful future and a hope. My expectations will not be cut off in Jesus name. Amen.