Reflections on Max On Life by Max Lucado

Yesterday was the wrap up of Max On Life by Max Lucado in our bible study group. It is a wholistic study of life so we touched on parenting, finances, relationships and personal witness/ministry.

In the study we examined the lives of people who didn't think they could accomplish God's Will in their own strength and those who seemingly detoured from the purpose they thought their lives would/should have.

I was intrigued by the story of the lady who thought God's plan (or maybe her plan) for her life was to marry and have children. Then at age 66- a successful single CPA- when that dream did not materialize, decided to adopt. She now has two children 8 and under and is convinced that this is God's Will for her life to make a difference in the lives of these children.

It sparked an interest because I am now approaching the end of my 20s and I initially thought that by now I would have been married with at least two children. I do have a desire to marry and even feel called to do so but the older I get I have doubts. I question God, I question my faith and I often wonder how much of where I am now is as a result of poor decisions and failure to grow in key areas. I do pray concerning most things but would I have been on a different path if I consistently made a habit of seeking God in every aspect of my life? I guess I'll have to wait for God to be the final judge of that.

I didn't share this inner convo with my bible study group but it was interesting to hear stories of what people thought they would be doing with their lives and what they are actually doing now.

The group had so many questions, a major one being:

Can a believer die without achieving the actual plans God has for them?

The consensus was, Yes! It was scary, but a moment of truth. God gives us choices in life but it is ultimately up to us to seek him daily concerning His Will in every situation.

In Jeremiah 29:11, it affirms, "For I know the plans I have for you, says The Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future."

When I reflect on this I am frightened but thankful that in our faulty choices as humans, God always has a plan of redemption.

The Bible tells us that if we confess our misdirection, he is faithful and just and will forgive us. And that He causes ALL things to work for good for them that love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Selah

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