In Jeremiah 29:11 -13 God says to us that he knows the plans he has for us, plans to prosper us and give us hope for the future. He also tells us that he listens when we pray and that those who seek Him with their whole hearts will find him.

Before we came to New Zealand, my grandfather passed away. I thought that going to his funeral would mean closure to me as well as a new beginning. I wanted to move forward.

Yet, as we went into the old age home where his mourning service would be held, I felt lost. I thought, surely this funeral would be different from the others. I loved my grandfather very much and had so many fond memories of him and the farm.  Then I had to hear that the little memory I wrote down for the funeral letter was never received. As I sat next to my cousin I felt so sad and betrayed. Why would this small thing be denied?

Later as I stood at the grave site, I felt that I could climb in there with his ashes. Even though my husband was with me, I still felt alone. Where I thought I would have closure, pain pierced my heart. The finality of it all came crushing down on me. My future seemed uncertain.

Yet, in this moment God says that He knows the thoughts that he has towards me, thoughts to prosper me and give me a hope for my future. He urges me to come closer so he can draw closer to me and tell me about it. Only then will I be able to have peace and will I be able to laugh at the future like the Proverbs 31 woman.

Many of us had times like these where we feel uncertain about the plans God has for our lives. Heartache, pain, disappointment, betrayal and self-pity gets a hold of us and we feel that there is no hope for the future. But it is in these times that we must draw closer to God. His will for our lives is perfect, but we will not know what it is, if we don’t draw closer. Focus on Him who loves us the most for He has great and marvelous plans for your life.

May you be inspired to draw closer to God.

Catherina