God has a Plan for Your Life

Sometimes we have to deal with challenges and suffering that seem to have no purpose.

In these times it is easy to feel sorry for ourselves and get discouraged. Fortunately, we can place our trust and hope in God, who has a plan for our lives. Although we live in a fallen world where bad things happen, God still loves us and wants to guide us in our walk with Him. 2 Corinthians 2:14 says But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere (NIV). God loves us so much that he lets us take part in his plan, if we choose to follow Him. I found these examples of the unending love that God has for us, even when we do not understand what is going on around us.

John Piper’s words about how God speaks to people through the Bible and prayer brings up a good point. Often people underestimate how God speaks to people through His Word, and Piper writes to broaden their views. He also describes his own encounter with God in this article from ctlibrary.com. This piece is a helpful reminder of the value of reading the bible, and that God is active today.

Billie Faye Harvey lost control of her car on the interstate. When she lost control, all that she could do was pray. Her recount of this dangerous event, as well as the painful time that followed is available on Christianity.com. After reading Billie’s story, I was reminded that even when we may not understand what is happening around us, God is still in control.

Janette Tank shares another example of God miraculously saving someone from a potentially lethal car accident. Janette swerved off the road and slammed into a tree. She goes on to describe how God protected her from what could have made the situation much worse. Janette’s story is a testimony of God’s divine guidance.

Army Chaplain Captain Tim Maracle tells an inspiring story about the power of prayer in this article. As he was on his way home for leave from Afghanistan, he received news that one of his close friends had been killed. Captain Tim recounts how a member of his home church was praying for him, even when the member was not aware of the situation. God gave Captain Tim strength to minister over the next few days in a challenging environment. Prayer is a powerful tool in the hands of a believer.

Christi Foster talks about the struggle that she and her family went through resulting from the loss of her son in a tragic car accident. Her life was changed in an instant, and she had to choose the appropriate way to respond. Christi chose to deal with her loss by putting her trust in God, rather than trying to figure out why it happened. This is a moving story of faith and spiritual growth.

These stories are examples of God’s great love for us. While we may not always understand why things happen the way that they do, we do not need to worry because we can trust in God. 2 Corinthians 2:14 reminds us to thank God that He chooses to use us to fulfill his divine plan, and share his love with others.