Jeremiah 29:11

S - For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

O - God has specific plans for me. It's not just some vague idea of what I will do with my life but He has specific plans. The Strong's definition for welfare includes words like safe, peace, rest, health, prosperity. His plans are full of peace for me and full of hope. It's not just a random set of events happening but there is order and purpose. Just because I don't see it doesn't mean it's not true. He already knows what He wants for my life. His ways are so perfect and good. 

A - If His Word says that He has a plan for me then I need to be asking Him what that plan is. In every situation and circumstance there is a plan.  Just because I have stepped off into my own plan or this world has thrown some of their junk in the mix doesn't mean God's plan is thwarted. I just need to ask Him directions for how to get there from where I am. He fills me with peace and hope as I step forth in His plan.

P - Lord, today I chose Your plan. It will always be better than mine. I know I haven't always looked for your plan though. Remind me Lord to look to You and to seek out Your plan, instead of just trudging forward with whatever I think is right. I know all I have to do is ask. Remind me to ask Lord.

Blessings,

Mara

Renewing the Mind

I've recently heard about a scripture study process called S.O.A.P. The premise of this method is you take a scripture or section of scripture and you break it down by

S - Scripture (write the scripture)

O - Observation (what is it saying to you)

A - Application (how does it apply to you)

P - Prayer (Pray about it)

I really enjoy this method. It gives me direction in my studying of the Word, plus I love that I can just read the Bible and study that. Don't get me wrong, Bible studies are great! It's just that they are pointing you in a specific direction and I like that this allows me to go in any direction the Lord is leading me.  

You know how when you are reading the Word and it just pops out at you? Well, this is some of that. The scriptures may be really random, but other times they are sequential as I'm focusing on one book of the Bible.  

I share these with you in hopes you will join me as we do as Romans 12:2 tells us...

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.  

So, let's get a good washing together.

Blessings,

Mara