Promise in the Dark

“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

I'm sorry to say that you have been diagnosed with lymphoma cancer. It is a very fast-growing cell type, and the tumor's position is near your main blood vessels. You need to be treated as soon as possible, and I suggest you be admitted to the hospital this evening. You can go back home, pack some clothes, and get ready for the treatment," said the doctor briefly.

I felt dazed; her words sounded like a dream. I wished somebody would wake me up. Desperately trying to hold onto hope, I whispered to God in my heart, "You're not going to give this to harm me, right? You can't break Your promise… I am the sole breadwinner in the family, with 5 and 7 years old daughters. Have Your mercy on them, Jesus." I begged Him.

Jeremiah 29:11 is a familiar verse to many of us. It is so comforting to hear that God has planned for our future; a future filled with hope and prosperity. But did you know that this beautiful promise was given during the tragic moment when the Babylonian kingdom carried Israelites into exile, and Jerusalem was completely destroyed? It was a time without hope for the future. Yet, in that darkest moment, God came with His promises.

When we feel overwhelmed by the difficulties of today, we have tomorrow to hope for. God promises us plans for a prosperous future. To prepare, we may face challenges along the way. It is so that we can grow and learn to have hope in Him.

Continue to live a blessed life (v. 5-6), seek peace over the situation, receive God's provisioning (v. 7), and meditate on the Word and rebuke false words (v. 8-9).

God will never deny His Word. He is the God of Truth. Today, Jeremiah 29:11 still applies to you and me. He has sealed the promise in His name.

My friend, if you can't see the light yet, know that you can still look forward to tomorrow. God has a bright future for you. You may not see it now, but He is preparing for your breakthrough. You may not see a way out, but He is opening the way for you. His plans for you are to bring the best out of your life. He will not harm you nor forsake you. Place your hope in Him, for His promises are Yes and Amen!

There is always hope in God, even in times of hopelessness.