For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV)

 

God spoke, through the Prophet Jeremiah, saying His thoughts towards us are always peaceful and good. The Hebrew word for “thoughts” is machashabah which means design, intention, and ultimate plan. It is connected to God fulfilling His purpose of bringing us peace and a hopeful future. We can trust God to work it out for our good and His glory, even when things appear hopeless and lost.

God’s “thoughts of peace” is the Old Testament shadow of the gospel of peace in the New Testament (Ephesians 6:15). We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. And when we let God's peace to reign within us, we can endure trials and tribulations without fear. When we know God is for us and not against us, we don’t have to search for peace. After all, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ (Philippians 4:7).

Life is not always easy and not always good.

Many of us are used to worrying and overly concerned with things we have no control or power over. Instead of worrying and be discouraged, we should learn to rest in God’s sovereignty and goodness. We know that God cannot and will not fail to keep His promises to us. This makes it crucial for us to know His word and have the faith to believe it. The truth and power of His word will not only save us but also sustain us, allowing us to persevere without growing weary.