Jeremiah 29:11–13 Devotional: Finding Hope, Trusting God’s Plans, and Seeking God in Hard Times

During Lent, our confirmation students met with mentors to talk about faith and life—growing in identity, belonging, and purpose through caring relationships. Together they also co-wrote reflections on a Bible verse, and we’ll be sharing these devotionals throughout the Easter season as an invitation to embrace thoughtful dialogue and respond to God’s grace with love in the world.

This devotional was written by 7th grader Carter Davis and his mentor Stephanie Davy

11 For 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. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

-Jeremiah 29:11-13

This is a favorite verse of Carter’s and he even has it memorized! This verse helps show that God doesn’t want to hurt us and does everything for a reason. Sometimes when things don’t go our way, we may feel disconnected from God, but this verse reminds us that in order to see His light, we need to draw closer to Him. God is not a “wish granter” but rather He is the creator of all things, including us. He wants to be in a relationship with us. While God might close some doors, we believe it is always for a reason. Ultimately, God has good plans for our future, which can mean our time on earth but also for eternity. In order to accomplish the goal of living with Him for all eternity, we have to accept Him into our hearts and seek Him. It is easy to praise God when things are going well in our lives, but God also wants us to come to Him in times of trouble and trust His process. This verse gives me comfort because I know that even if tough things come into my life, God has a purpose and great plans for me.