I thought it was just a regular morning as I opened my Bible. I don’t remember why, but when I read Jerimiah 29:11, it was different. It seemed to jump off the page. I dated the scripture in the margin in my Bible. One month later as I sat in a local restaurant sharing chips and dip with my new Vice President she said, “I think you would be happier doing something else.” Instantly following her gentle firing these words came to me, “For 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. “Jeremiah 29:11 came to me.

That verse would be my only “lifeline” for the next 6 months. It was 2 weeks before all my severance, vacation and bonus money would be exhausted with no hope for a job, when God did what only God can do. A co-worker from a previous job 25 years earlier called multiple times to try to find me. I had no idea when we met what he wanted. A few minutes after reuniting he said, “I’m going to retire and I thought you might like to have my job.” BAM! Then once again His Word flooded my heart, “For 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.” This was pure God. I had done nothing but pray His Word and believe His Promise.

Maybe you are, or will, face an impossible situation. Let this passage whisper to your heart. “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.” Romans 15:4

It was His Hope I focused on. It was His Hope, His Truth… knowing He is the Promise Keeper who tamped down my anxiety that kept fear from creeping into control my heart & mind. Where there is no hope, anxiety will set up house and attempt to control your life.

• “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?” Romans 8:24
• “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” Hebrews 6:19

May the confidence of Jesus Christ comfort & strengthen you. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27