City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh

The Word

¹¹ Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.

¹² God’s purpose was that we Jews who were the first to trust in Christ would bring praise and glory to God.

Ephesians 1:11-12 (NLT)

Aisha’s Analysis

Today’s verses encourage us not to worry. They zoom out over all of history and show us that before we ever knew we needed Him, God chose us and had a plan for us. This really gives a sound and comforting perspective especially to those who feel like they are caught between a rock and a hard place. 

We tend to lose sight of the intentionality of God. God is a planner and His plans are good! For all of my fellow planners out there, you know the painstaking thought and effort that goes into planning. Major life events don’t just happen arbitrarily. Think of a graduation, an interview, a wedding, a party, a business event, or having a baby. All of those things require planning. 

Isn’t it astounding that an all powerful, holy God includes us in His plans?! If God took the time and effort and made the ultimate sacrifice to include us in His plans, shouldn’t we do the same for Him? Better yet, instead of trying to squeeze God into our miniscule plans, let’s plan our lives around our all-encompassing God! 

Application

Things don’t always go according to what we plan or had in mind, and that’s okay. Take comfort in knowing that you’re a part of a much bigger plan–God’s plan, the best plan there is. Be especially reassured that God makes everything work out according to His plan (Ephesians 1:11 NLT). 

The next time you hit traffic, are late for a meeting, or encounter an obstacle that wasn’t in your plan, instead of getting upset or frustrated, let that be a trigger to worship God. Praise Him for causing everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them (Romans 8:28). 

Prayer

Father God, thank You so much for working me into Your perfect plans. Empower me to live out Your purpose for me today. In Jesus’ name, amen.