Reading the wrong chapter meant that I read the wrong verse. I was searching for relaxation and peace. It was all joy’s fault. Joy keeps looking for a place on my face to really shine out that I am alive. I have had the Lord in my heart since I was 6 years old and why am I not jumping up and down with joy every single day? Joy should start deep down in my soul and just bubble up and out in smiles and laughter, but instead I am filled with tears, worry and stress. That is how I ended up reading the wrong verse that was as encouraging as the right verse. I’m so glad I did.
Somewhere along my story that may be confusing to those who have not misplaced their joy, I was able to turn my head at just the right moment as we passed a sign outside a church. The sign was congratulating seniors who had graduated from high school. Two hours later when I was able to look up the no doubt, encouraging verse, to lead these graduates through their life, I went to the wrong chapter in Jeremiah.
Jeremiah 29:11 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 a hope and a future.
I wanted to gather comfort from my younger years when I remember graduating, feeling strong, and fearless. I would travel the world, conquering every obstacle along the way. But, somewhere I got off course and I forgot to always be nice and happy and trust in the Lord. HE is Almighty!
Jeremiah 20:11 But the Lord is with me like a mighty warrior;so my persecutors will stumble and not prevail. They will fail and be thoroughly disgraced;their dishonor will never be forgotten.
My persecutors sneak in to my life and they are worry and fear, but the Lord will cause them to stumble and fail. Peace,love,and happiness are beautiful if we keep them with us. They cause you to smile, to hope for a joy filled future lead by the Lord. Even though I am older, HE knows the plans HE has for me. I am so glad I read the wrong chapter, right verse, and I blame it all on JOY!
