God won't give you what you think you want

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”

As we begin a new year, many of us may reflect on the past and look ahead with hope and anticipation. It's a time for new beginnings, fresh opportunities, and perhaps some challenges along the way.

A few years ago, I had the privilege of visiting an old congregation I worked with during my time as a missionary. It brought back fond memories, and in one of the conversations, a thought shared by a member stayed with me: 神不会给你想要的, 会给你最好的—“God won't give you what you think you want, He'll give you the very best.” This thought is a powerful reminder that God’s plan for our lives is always greater and more fulfilling than we can imagine.

Devotional:

As we reflect on this idea of God giving us His best, we are reminded of Jeremiah 29:11, where God reassures His people: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." This promise is not just for the Israelites in exile but for each of us. God is not merely concerned with our present desires, but with the bigger picture—He desires to give us a future filled with hope and His best plans for us.

It’s easy to get caught up in our own expectations of what we think we need or want. We often make plans based on what seems good in the moment, believing that certain things will fulfill us. But as we learn from the wisdom shared by the member at my old congregation, God’s understanding is far greater than ours. What we think we need may not always be what is best for us in the long run. Sometimes, the things we long for are not aligned with God’s perfect plan for our lives. In those moments of waiting or disappointment, we must trust that God’s timing and provision are always better than what we can imagine.

This truth is especially important as we start the new year. Whether we are anticipating a fresh start or carrying burdens from the past, we can take comfort in knowing that God is leading us toward His best. We don’t have to figure everything out on our own, and we don’t have to be afraid of what lies ahead. God is with us, guiding us toward a future filled with hope.

As we reflect on the blessings we have, and the journey ahead, let’s surrender our own plans to God. Let’s remember that His best is always better than our expectations. This year, let’s make room for God’s plans in our lives, trusting that He is shaping us and leading us into a future filled with purpose, hope, and the fullness of His love.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect plans for our lives. As we begin this new year, help us to trust in Your timing and provision, knowing that Your plans for us are filled with hope and good things. Thank You for guiding us into a future that is aligned with Your will. Help us to let go of our own expectations and trust that You are leading us to the very best. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection:

As you reflect on the start of this new year, how can you trust God to give you His very best? Are there areas in your life where you need to surrender your own plans and allow God to lead you toward something greater? Take some time this week to reflect on God's perfect plans for your life and how you can align yourself with His will in the year ahead.