On the Shoulders of GiantsSample

Following an Unseen Path

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. -Jeremiah 29:11

Seven generations of my family have united with the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) Richard Allen founded more than two hundred years ago. So, I knew who Allen was, about his accomplishments, and the milestones of his life. Yet it was not until I took a closer look that I realized something more. The path that led Richard Allen from slavery to the founder of a church was not happenstance; this was God’s plan for his life.

When Israel was captive in Babylon, the prophet Jeremiah wrote a letter affirming God’s promise to bring them out of bondage and assuring them of God’s plans: “to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” God has plans for us, too, but it is often in retrospect that we gain glimpses of these plans.

When Allen bought his freedom, did he know he would lead others to religious freedom? As he fought for justice, did Allen know his actions would inspire succeeding generations, even as they fought for justice? No, he didn’t know. How could he? You see, God’s plans for Richard Allen’s life unfolded along an unseen path.

We may not know how God’s plans will reveal themselves in our lives, or what paths we should take; that’s okay. The lives of Richard Allen and others reveal that God’s plans for us become fulfilled as we trust Him to lead us along an unseen path.

B. Williams Waters

How does the assurance that God has plans for your life bring you hope?

God, help us to trust in You and Your Word when we cannot find our way and when we do.