Unexpected Turns

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord. . . ” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Enoch went on a stroll with God that ended well for him (Genesis 5:24). But sometimes unexpected events happen, and walks don’t end well without a turn or two: Jacob awoke the morning after his wedding and discovered he had not married his beloved Rachel, but Leah, her deceptive sister (Genesis 25:29; 49:28). Joseph’s brothers, out of jealousy, cast him into a pit and left him to die (Genesis 37:24; 50:20). Lazarus was sick unto death, and when his sisters sent for their friend Jesus, the Great Physician delayed meeting them, and their brother died (John 11:3–45). Mary Magdalene, wanting to anoint the body of Jesus, her dead Master, found an empty tomb (John 20:1–17, 31). These life-walkers didn’t understand their circumstances. But their turn of events resulted in the twelve tribes of Israel; wise handling of a worldwide famine; death, and restored life, bringing glory to God and His Son; God’s victory over sin, death, and the grave.

You strive to serve the Lord faithfully. You are truthful, fair, forgiving, kind, generous with your time and resources. Your faith in God is strong, and you know He hears your prayers. But your life-walk took unexpected turns that stunned you, knocked you off your spiritual feet. When that happens, and life doesn’t make sense, keep your eyes on The One who sits on the throne. God hasn’t stepped down, nor is He ever taken off guard when the unforeseen happens. He had a plan in motion long before any setbacks occurred—before time began. God works tirelessly on behalf of His children, never needing sleep or rest (Psalm 121:4). But we must look for and find Him and call upon Him in faith, leaving no room for doubt and fear. We can trust the Father with the results of our faith-walk—verse eleven continues, saying His plans for us are for good, to give us a future and a hope.