I had every intention of writing a blog on a rather deep topic. But as I contemplated what I would write and the scriptures that I would delve into, I just couldn’t do it. I didn’t want to rock the boat or disturb the waters, you might say. Life can be stressful enough without dredging up controversial observations.

So now I’m faced with writing something uplifting—something encouraging and hopeful. One of my favorite scriptures is the first to come to mind.

Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

Philippians‬ ‭4‬:‭8‬-‭9‬ ‭MSG

When thinking about all the deep, hard realities of this world and the struggles of my own life, this scripture reminds me that God is always at work and His goodness is not so hard to find.

Don’t worry or surrender to your fear. For you’ve believed in God, now trust and believe in me also. My Father’s house has many dwelling places. If it were otherwise, I would tell you plainly, because I go to prepare a place for you. And when everything is ready, I will come back and take you to myself so that you will be where I am.

John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭TPT‬‬

This scripture is the inspiration for the novel I’m writing, A Place for Me. Not only does God have a plan and a purpose for us, but we have a place waiting for us in God’s house.

As for that plan and purpose? You probably know this verse:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭11‬ ‭NLT

Hope. All these verses are hopeful verses. They turn us toward the one who gives us hope.

Whether you’re cruising down the river with the sun shining down on your face, or you’re in the midst of a storm trying to stay afloat, God is with you.

In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.

Jeremiah‬ ‭29‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NLT

Everyday we can find Him.

Grace & Peace,

Sandy

Image created in Canva