Keeping it Simple

 

 

One of my favorite pieces of scripture states:

 

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, NIV

 

It’s so simple and beautiful, yet people can easily make God’s promises far more complicated than intended, sometimes asking questions like:

 

• What are your plans, God, and what if I’m not following them right?
• What if I’m not doing enough for the kingdom?
• Am I qualified to do work for God’s kingdom? What if my sins are unforgivable?
• What if people won’t listen to me when I share the gospel? What if I don’t speak eloquently enough?
• What should I do? What if I’m in the wrong job field?
• God, where do you want me to go? What if I’m in the wrong place?
• Should I start investing money? What if I go into debt?
• God, why haven’t you given me a spouse yet? What if I am alone the rest of my life?

 

WHOA! That’s a lot to think about. Those are some very troubling questions. Either way, God isn’t in the business of making His children confused about their purpose and place in His plan. Satan will use many of these “what ifs” to cause people to stumble, to doubt God’s plan, and to hold people back. The Christian can take comfort because God also promises:

 

 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.  Matthew 6:33-34, NIV

 

Could it be that it’s as simple as accepting that God’s plan for us is Himself? All the good things he promises come from a relationship with Him. Relationship with God comes first; Himself for us and us for Him.

 

He may eventually move us to do more or use us for the great commission. He may ask us to sacrifice and make other difficult decisions, but always His children’s business is simply obedience, love, and trust. Our relationship with Him will ultimately flow out and move others.

 

A huge burden can be lifted when we keep it simple. There isn’t one thing we can do to make him love us more or love us less. By loving God and giving their life to Christ, the Christian is already following the plan.

 

 

Feature photo courtesy of Pixabay