Expectation

Have you ever been through a season of uncertainty? Anxious thoughts race through your mind and uneasiness permeates your emotions. You fear the unknown. Indecision imprisons you. Questions linger.

That’s exactly the kind of season the Israelites experienced when they were exiled to Babylon from their homeland of Jerusalem. They were displaced, discouraged, and confused. Yet, in just the right moment, God met them at their point of need. He delivered these words through His prophet, Jeremiah:

“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.” Jer 29:11 (NIV) 

We serve an “on time” God! He is never late and He always knows exactly what you need. Therefore, you can trust Him to accomplish His perfect plan in you and through you. He knows you by name and even the hairs upon your head are numbered. Wow! He’s good!

Are you ready for the final letter in our PACE acrostic? The “E” is for expectation. At this point you pray with your hands outstretched parallel to the ground (as though you are trying to fly) with the palm of your hands facing upward. Then you say, “I expect great things to happen today!”

Recognize God’s sufficiency and PACE yourself each day by embracing this spiritual discipline. Lift your hands toward heaven and say, “Lord, I praise You. I accept Your acceptance of me. I surrender to Your control. I expect great things to happen today!”

Now we’re on shouting ground. Live in fullness everyday!

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care