Where’s the Joy in the Future?

“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

Over the last two weeks, we have discussed being thankful for our past and present. Today I’m thankful for my future. 

Our future is uncertain, the path ahead could be bumpy with rolling hills and mountains, and lows in the deepest valleys. It could just be smooth sailing ahead, but we just don’t know what the future holds. Only God knows. 

What I DO know is that one day there will be no more chronic illnesses. No more pain, hurting, or medicines to take. There will be no more waiting in the hospital, no more surgeries or treatments.

The failed relationships and unreconciled ones will be fixed. There will be no more discord but we will all be united as one. The past hurts will be gone and I will be made new.

I can celebrate these things because I have hope in the Lord Jesus. The Bible tells me that He will wipe every tear from my eye. (Revelations 21:4) He will restore my health and heal my wounds (Jeremiah 30:17a). The pain I’m feeling won’t compare to the joy that’s coming (Romans 8:18). 

I’m overjoyed with this in giddy anticipation as I write this. I’m like a four-year-old at Christmas waiting to open the gifts around the tree, not able to sit down and continuously asking, “is it time?”. 

When you’ve been in pain for more of your life than not, the thought of no longer being in pain is exciting.

I’ve been hurt by people, and knowing that those relationship wounds that I carry and the past hurts will ALL be healed is amazing. 

I’m thankful to my parents for laying the foundation of my faith for me. 

I’m thankful for Ms. Judy taking me to the concert at Carowinds the night I accepted Christ into my heart. 

I’m thankful for my husband, a kind, patient, caring Christian man. 

I’m thankful for my son who can call me out when I’m in the wrong or struggling with the flesh. 

I’m thankful for the people who have played a part in my journey of faith. 

I’m thankful for the people whom I will still meet on this journey.

And most of all, I’m thankful that God sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for my sins. He died the death that I deserve but He took my place. “Brianna, I got this. Your sins are forgiven.” That is hope.

I am thankful for the hope that one day, I’ll get to see Jesus face-to-face in all His glory.