Devotional From Rev. Karl Decker
Recently at my dear friend, Peggy Hutcheson’s funearal, Pastor Bruce mentioned that she had a list of “favorite” scriptures. “The list was long and always growing,” he went on to say.
Brenda and I were fortunate to be part of Peggy’s home group for 10 years, and on many occasions, we would see Peggy adding to her list. I remember one verse that was used a lot in our studies and she would always say, “Oh, the is one of my favorites!”
Jeremiah 29:11 (King James Version)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
I used the King James Version as that was always her favorite!
Peggy lived by those words. Everything she faced, she faced with gladness and thankfulness. Even during her struggles with cancer, she would say, “It is in God’s hands.” I never heard her complain. Lately, I have found myself having to counsel friends and others who are going through difficult times, either a death of a loved one, a change in life, dealing with issues at home, dealing with issues at work. I am always reminded of this verse.
Sometimes it is very difficult to see what God is doing, especially with all the things we see on TV, the Internet and social media. I can only hold on to my faith that God has got this even if I feel everything is spinning out of control. Just when you think things are going to explode, a glimpse of heaven arrives! A new child is born, children are rescued from a cave, a friend gets a job, something funny happens to break the tension…
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I give you thanks for each new day. I give you thanks for each new opportunity. I give you thanks for your Son Jesus who came to rescue me and others. Please keep me mindful that you are in control and you have plans for us all. Be with those who are grieving, those how are sick, those who are in need of a friend. Please help us to use our gifts and talents to help others and to reach out to those that we can. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!
