Yesterday while sitting at my computor I glanced over and noticed a small ceramic heart with a favorite Bible verse imprinted on it. As I read through the verse (one I quote often) I noticed a word I don't use when I quote the verse. You too may know this verse and quote it many times however depending on what translation you use this one little word may or may not be included. The verse is Jeremiah 29:11. Ah, I know there you go quoting it in your mind. "For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for clamity to give you a future and hope (NAS). As I sat staring my mind took over with the thoughts of how complete God is in His care for me. Right now there is nothing in my life that is or will touch me that has not gone through the sifting of God's hands first. He plans my wakings and the times I sleep. He knows my deepest groanings. His love covers me completely. His plans (plural) for me are many however they are not made in haste or without thought. Every detail is already taken care of and my only response is to follow.

This morning I researched the different translations so I could find which translation used this little word ~ guess what ~ I couldn't find it! I know you are still wondering what the word is, aren't you? So let me quote it here for you "For I know the plans I have made for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Do you see it? Read it again. Still not sure? The little word is "made", "for I know the plans I have made for you...". It doesn't matter that I can't find the translation they used what matters is that yesterday as I needed encouragment I received it from the throne room of God's grace. God has made many plans for me. I am not being left to chance nor are the circumstances of my life. Thank you Jesus for loving me so completely and ordering the steps of my life. Amen