In God's time

We were in Jeremiah today noting how a false prophet told the exiled Isrealites they would be back in Jerusalem in two years.  The real prophet, Jeremiah, told them it would be 70 years and that they should settle in and make their h home in Babylon with their captives for now. Two different views. One was easier and seemed more hopeful for the immediate future, but false. One was much harder (they had to wait 70 years), and true because that one was the real message sent from God. 

Many times in life,  we prefer to have the easier solution tickle our ears rather than listen to the harsh reality of truth. We just want the problem to go away and a good result to be there instead.

In fact, I have a friend who has cancer.  The first option, two years ago, was surgery.  Now, several surgeries and chemo treatments later, she is still attuned with her recovery.  Besides cancer, she has lost her job,  is now on disability and must consider giving up her house. Her children want to have her live with them, but that is a life changing choice for her and them. It has been a long,  painful, depressing road. Yesterday, her mom said, "think of how many people have been led to Christ through this woman's testimony in the hospital, the doctors and nurses, friends, etc." Now there is the focus we all need for tough situations!

God did not promise things would be easy,  or brief, but he did promise he would be with us.

Jeremiah 29:4
11For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 

By prosper, hope, and future, God means He will bring us peace according to His plan.  He knows what the end of the story should look like and He will get us there! Thank you, Father!