Thoughts of Peace – A Greater End in Christ - Steps Towards Eternity Daily Devotional

Trusting God’s Eternal Plans

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
— Jeremiah 29:11 (KJV)

God’s thoughts for us are like no other. His plans are eternal, extending far beyond our present circumstances. Yet, they influence our current reality in profound ways. It’s natural to desire immediate answers or interventions from God to avoid hardships. Sometimes He spares us, but other times, He allows us to face challenges for a greater purpose.

Why does God permit these difficulties? It is so we can grow stronger spiritually, becoming better equipped to reach the “expected end” He has planned. This end is not death but eternal life with Him. From the beginning, God’s plans were always eternal. When He created Adam and Eve, He intended for them to live in the Garden of Eden forever. Although their disobedience introduced sin into the world, God’s faithfulness never wavered.

Through His Son, Jesus Christ, God provided a way to fulfill His thoughts of peace toward us. Jesus not only paid the debt for humanity’s sin but also gave us an even greater inheritance. Through Him, we are adopted as God’s children and made co-heirs with Christ. This is the ultimate “expected end”—a life of eternal fellowship with God, filled with His love and glory.

Even when life’s trials seem overwhelming, God’s faithfulness remains. His peace and love sustain us, and His protection shields us from the schemes of the enemy. Consider Daniel in the lions’ den: despite a perilous situation caused by evil plots, God’s peace and protection surrounded him. Daniel’s expected end was not defeat but deliverance, and the same is true for us.

We may face challenges on our journey, but God’s plans are steadfast. Just like Daniel, we have an expected end—one secured by the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.

Reflective Questions:

1.    How can you trust God’s eternal plans when facing life’s challenges?
    2.    In what ways does remembering God’s thoughts of peace and not evil give you strength?
    3.    How does the story of Daniel encourage you to rely on God’s protection and peace in your own life?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I come to You in the name of Jesus, longing to know You more deeply each day. Thank You for the peace that steadies me and for protecting me from evil. Teach me to understand and walk in Your ways, aligning my thoughts with Yours. Your ways are perfect, and I desire Your will above all else. Help me to bring You joy through my life, trusting in Your love and guidance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.