Big Plans
Bible Readings
Take a few minutes to read the Bible verses listed and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you in how this verse applies to you this week.
Memory Verse
“I will bless you with a future filled with hope—a future of success, not of suffering. You will turn back to me and ask for help, and I will answer your prayers. You will worship me with all your heart, and I will be with you…” CEV
Do you like to make plans? By making plans, you can be excited about what’s coming, and you can anticipate what you may need to prepare. Plans can be little, like a plan to play tag at recess. Plans can be big, like figuring out a future career when you grow up. But, did you know God has made even bigger plans for you?
In the Bible, there’s a story about a man named Joshua. Joshua had been Moses’ assistant for many years. One day, Moses passed away. Joshua was probably pretty sad that Moses was gone. But now it was Joshua’s time to lead God’s people into the promised land. God spoke to Joshua. He said, “I will always be with you and help you.” God commanded Joshua, “... be strong and brave. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.” Even though Joshua was about to go on a wild, risky adventure, he could trust God’s plan.
Even if it’s clear that God’s plans are different from ours, we don’t have to be afraid or discouraged. After all, God knows everything that has happened to you, and he knows everything that will happen to you. He cares about the little things and the big things, and he’s made a perfect plan for your life. Our job is to ask God for help, worship him, and trust that he knows what is best for us. By trusting God’s plan, we can be strong and courageous like Joshua. Just like Joshua, we can be excited to follow God on the amazing adventure he has planned for us!
Prayer
Dear God, I know you have a plan for my life. Even when I don’t understand it, please help me to trust you and follow you every step of the way. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.Related Resources
Areo Keller-Donahue
As soon as Areo could pick up a popsicle stick, she was making puppets and putting on plays that shared her faith with her neighbors. Areo grew up with a strong interest in musical theatre and earned her BFA at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. Areo was led to use artistic gifts to share the gospel with young ones, and she became involved in ministry. She has worked in children's ministry at Redeemer Upper West Side and North Way Christian Community and is currently developing a musical live-action series that celebrates faith and fun. Areo and her husband live in Pittsburgh, where they enjoy spending time with their families and adorable cat, Daisy.