Becoming the Best We Can Be

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Have you ever considered the growth and development of a human being from conception to baby to adulthood? With the proper mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual nutrients there are no limits to the development of the mind. Although hereditary factors influence our outward appearance, with a positive mindset we can train our minds and bodies to excel beyond our imaginations.

So why do we limit God on fulfilling His plans for us? Certainly, we cannot think that our plans would exceed God’s plans. This is the perplexing thought that I am wrestling with right now. Is it pride, lack of knowledge, or a combination of both? Or even worse, is it FEAR? For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7.

Faith over Fear! We are familiar with this quote. Even so, God tells us that we are going no where fast without having an abundance of faith in Him.

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

Truthfully, I know that I cannot provide a better life for myself. I confess that my prayer life is not where it should be. If I communicated with God [Pray without ceasing. Thessalonians 5:17] diligently seeking Him for answers, then I would know the plans that He has for me. I would also be fully aware that He gives the strength to fulfill His personalized plans for me. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

God’s love, grace, and mercies are always extended to the weak, wavering ones with fragile hearts. Yes, He is aware that His creation would consistently need reminders that He is “I AM.” “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27

Our Heavenly Father never tires of us. Biblical stories make us aware that the question, “God, are those really your plans for me?” did not begin with us. Jeremiah was the prophet who required constant reassurance from God.

God’s Plans for Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5

Jeremiah’s response: Then said I: “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.”

God’s response: But the Lord said to me: “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you, And whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, For I am with you to deliver you,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 1:6-8

There is no record of Jeremiah ever asking God, “What will you have me to do?” Just because we do not ask, does not mean that God will never reveal His plans to us. If your life is at a standstill and nothing is working out, then it is time to pray, “God, your will be done in my life.” Despite our failures, faithlessness, and fears, God is with us. He never leaves or forsakes us. Make the commitment that you will ask, listen, and respond with obedience when God reveals His plans for making you become the best you can be.

Prayer: God, we confess that we make plans based on our desires without asking you to reveal your plans for our lives. We ask forgiveness for excluding you. Please show us the path that you desire for us to walk on. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson