"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." Jeremiah 29:11

Most moms who send their little ones to kindergarten often do so with tears in their eyes.

The prospect of facing an empty and quiet home can be pretty disturbing.

Such was the condition of a young mother who had packed her little one off for his first full day of school. She had just finished drying the last of her tears and decided it was time to get to work.

That's about when her first-grader bounced in through the back door. With a flourish he threw his backpack in the corner and announced, "I'm home for good!"

Mom asked, "Why?"

"Because I didn't like school," was the terse reply. "It was too long, too tough, and it was waaaay too boring."

Having heard her son's reasons, the mother found them wanting and said, "Son, that's an accurate description of the rest of your life. Tomorrow, it's back to school."

Most of us are inclined to throw in the towel from time to time.

All of us feel life leaves a lot to be desired. That's when the Lord speaks to us and says, "I'm sorry, but you have to stick it out."

Now I hope the little boy of our story found out that school could be a lot more than being too long, too tough, and too boring. I hope he found the challenges, the knowledge, the fun, and the excitement.

In the same way, I hope the Lord lets those who have dropped out and are listening to this short devotion realize that in the hands of God your life can take on new dimensions. Life in Jesus isn't boring. With God by your side and in your heart, you can find new challenges, new friendships and, above all, new joys.

All you have to do is let the crucified and risen Savior lead the way.


From a devotion originally written for "By the Way"



THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, help me to see the plans, the challenges, and the opportunities You have for me. Then, let me realize that You will always be there to help me accomplish Your purposes. This I ask in Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Jeremiah 43-44    Hebrews 11:20-40

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