Why Jeremiah 29:11 is so Powerful

For I know the plans I have for you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. ~ Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

This Scripture became my life verse—my lifeline—during a difficult season. That’s why you’ll always see it included on my blogs and websites.

Since embracing that promise, I've recognized that others have done the same. I frequently see it posted on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, blogs, and websites—and included in articles, devotions, and books.

Why?

Why is this verse so powerful?

I believe one reason is because it relates to a universal need to have purpose, and to have purpose is to have hope.

To have hope is to believe that the future holds good things.

They’re all connected. Can you hear me singing “The Circle of Life” from the Lion King?

There’s a strong link between hope and purpose. Some people struggling in poverty may see no other purpose than to survive. They can’t envision a bright future for themselves, so they lose hope. Without hope, there’s despair.

It may be why elderly people, lonely and with nothing to do, decide to give up.

Perceived loss of purpose could be the reason why a disabled soldier who is no longer able to perform the job he trained for loses hope.

Even those of us who live what might be considered normal and relatively comfortable lives can begin to question the daily grind. Isn’t there something more worthwhile for me to do?

Jeremiah 29:11 gives me comfort. It reminds me that no matter how crazy things get, God is still in control, and he does have a plan—a purpose—for my life.

I believe he has the same for you!

What does Jeremiah 29:11 mean to you? Have you ever come to a point of losing hope? How did it affect your life?

Dawn