“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
Recently a Christian girlfriend asked me about retirement. She wanted to discuss her upcoming decision to retire next year. One particular question was at the forefront of her mind . . . “What do you do now that you are retired?” I replied, “Life is best lived with a purpose, no matter what season of life you are encountering, either the work force or retirement.” I continued to add, “What are your passions, talents, abilities, and spiritual gifts that will guide your decision?”
Do you know your real purpose in life?
Purpose begins in the heart of God. Whether you realize it or not, God has a direction for your life, a divine calling, a path along which He intends to lead you. When we welcomed God into our hearts and have established a genuine relationship with Jesus, He began and continues to make His purpose known.
“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.”
The prophet Jeremiah wrote in Chapter 29:11 that God knows our future and His plans for us are good and full of hope. Since God knows the future, provides our agenda and goes with us as we fulfill His mission, we can have boundless hope. This does not mean that we will be spared pain, suffering, and hardship, but that God will see us through to a glorious conclusion.
“Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31(NKJV)
“For it is God who is working among you both the willing and working of His good purpose.” Philippians 2:13 (HCSB)
God has a plan for your life even through retirement, a definite purpose that you can fulfill or not. The challenge is to pray for God’s guidance and follow wherever He leads.
Dear Lord, You are the source of true meaning and a purposeful life. Please forgive me for thinking I am in control of my life. Guide and direct my path for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
( Diane French went to be with the Lord on December 1st. Her presence and Words of Encouragement will be missed. "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21 )