God's plans Archives -

Goodman High School, Goodman, Missouri

“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.” Jeremiah 29:11 ESV

In the late ’50s, with no established art or writing classes in our rural school in Goodman, Missouri, I grabbed every opportunity to express my creative self. In addition to the school newspaper and annual, I thrived on creating bulletin boards and posters and working in the school office.

I was clearly at home with a pen and pad and relished each opportunity to exercise my God-given talents. Although I wasn’t sure what all that would entail, I knew God had called me to be a writer.

Sadly, I must admit that God and His plan for me were far from my mind as I left school. Selfish ambition, the lure of the world, bad choices, and circumstances beyond my control pulled me away from my destiny.

But, God is faithful. He never abandons His children! Incredibly, my first book, My Mother My Child was published in my sixties. Later, after I upgraded it to include detailed discussion guides for each chapter, I put the pen down.

Click here for God Has A Plan For You Scriptures.

My loving, patient Heavenly Father used a few days in ICU and a lengthy hospital stay to draw me back to His plan. I now have four books in print.

I intend to publish two books in my eightieth year. The Rebel and Preacher Man will be out this summer. And Patches the Turtle will introduce his new friend this fall in his third book.

So, I have to ask. Have you ever felt God tug on your heart? Do you have gnawing desires in your soul that won’t let go? Could it be that He is still wanting to bless you in that way? Trust me, you are always the winner when you obey God.

And, it is never too late!

I will eagerly look forward to your comments. I challenge you to earnestly pray. There is no greater encouragement and joy than following God’s plan for your life.

hugs,

Never Too Old Never Too Late

“…What no one ever saw or heard, or ever thought could happen, is the very thing God prepared for those who love him.” from 1 Corinthians 2:9

What are the deep desires of your heart? How would you serve if you were younger? more educated? had experience?

NEWS FLASH: You will never be younger!

He never went to Vacation Bible School as a child. At 35, Jesus knocked on his heart’s door and he invited Him in.

He accepted God’s call to preach. Immediately his world changed as began preparing. In over 45 years as Pastor, he led many Bible schools, helping where needed, always encouraging young teachers and leaders. However, he was never actually a student in VBS himself. Until this summer!

Visiting a local church Family Vacation Bible School, he planned only to stay for the opening session. God had other plans and at 94 years of age, he went with the adult group to every class including crafts (and snacks, I’m sure)! Excited about the evening, he proudly displayed his craft at home.

For very enlightening verses about God’s plan for all phases of your life, click here. Remember, God’s plans do not expire! His love and compassion never end.

My friend in her late 60’s just had her first book accepted for publication. A fellow in his 40s shared his testimony for the first time and led a friend to Christ. Margo was 83 when she prayed aloud for the first time in her church. Now, years later, her bold witness is contagious.

It is never too late! God called me to write as a teen, I wrote my first book in my late 60’s. Therefore, I praise Him daily that He didn’t remove the call or the talent.

My challenge for you; look around you. What need can you meet in your home, community, church? What fun thing do you wish you would have tried? What talent do you need to explore? What would God have you do for Him this week? Or for yourself? Or for others?

IMPORTANT: Your immediate task may to simply take a bold stand somewhere. Show forgiveness; go the extra mile. Perhaps lead out in prayer for the first time. You can trust God to give you the desires of your heart as you lean on Him.

“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

Please comment at the end of this post; thanks! Also, here are some more excellent Scriptures for God’s plan in your life and world.