"For I know the plans I have for you...plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).

"My dear children, even if you still are not aware of My love, I know what My plans are for you: plans--thoughts--of peace and prosperity. You think I am apathetic and cruel. You have Me mixed up with the world. How could I possibly will you evil when My character is goodness--and good will toward all of you."

What a joy and relief it is to know that God Himself has a plan for us, plans with faith and a future. Here God gives us a firm foundation simply because God tells us that it is so. We may have days this year when we won't believe this. After all, we are smart enough to handle our own lives--until something unexpected breaks our hearts and the hearts of those we cherish.

Imagine knowing that our gentle God has us in His thoughts constantly; that they are thoughts of harmony. It hurts Him to know that our life is full of commotion and competition. He never meant for it to be that way, for He is not the author of confusion but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). If life is wrong, perhaps we are doing or thinking something that interrupts His purpose of goodness for us.

"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace" (Isaiah 55:12); "Many, O Lord my God, are the wonders you have done. The things you planned for us no one can recount to you; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare" (Psalm 40:5); "Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be" (Job 8:7).

Father, forgive our unbelief, our prejudices, and our fragmentations that put blinders on our understanding of your truth and purity and loveliness. They are praiseworthy and excellent! And thank You for Your plans for this day and this year.