Key Takeaway
Because God holds our future, we can live with hope, purpose, and confidence that the best is yet to come.
“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.”
Jeremiah 29:11
Today, we want to focus on the words: “For I know the plans I have for you.”
When we think about the future, we as believers can rest in the truth that God already knows the plans He has set before us.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “the best is yet to come.” But what does that really mean for the Christian? Life can be hard—but this verse reminds us that when God is in the picture, we can live with hope and confidence in the future.
Here are a few reasons why your future is bright:
1. God is in your future.
No matter what your plans hold, you can be sure God is greater, and that because He is in your future, you have all you need.
2. Your future is in God’s hands.
We don’t have to strive for control. God is in control, and His plans are always better.
3. God’s promises reach into the future.
Every promise of God is “yes and amen.”
When we read lineages like the one in Matthew 1:12-18, we see God’s faithfulness to future generations. Zerubbabel never knew he’d be part of the lineage of Jesus—but God did.
4. The best version of you is ahead.
Following God means He is shaping us into who He’s calling us to be. Even in hardship, His grace is at work.
For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.
1 Corinthians 15:9–11
God uses even suffering to glorify Himself and transform us.
5. Your new identity is in the future.
When God writes your story, He gives you a new name and identity.
The woman at the well left her past behind after encountering Jesus. The enemy wants to chain you to yesterday, but God calls you forward.
Think of Bethany Hamilton. For years, she was known as the surfer who lost her arm to a shark. But God gave her a new identity—her children now call her Mom. Whatever defines you now will not define you forever.
6. Your harvest is in the future.
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows… Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
Galatians 6:7–10
If you’re sowing in faithfulness and prayer, don’t give up—the harvest is still ahead.
7. Heaven is in the future.
Ultimately, the best is yet to come means heaven.
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19–21
When we face difficulties, we can be comforted knowing that eternity with Christ awaits us.
Discussion Questions
What comes to mind when you hear the phrase, “the best is yet to come”?
How does knowing God is in control of your future give you peace today?
Why is it difficult to surrender your plans to God?
Which of God’s promises gives you the most hope right now?
How does Paul’s story in 1 Corinthians 15 encourage you about God’s transforming grace?
In what ways has God already given you a “new identity”?
How does the example of Bethany Hamilton’s story inspire you to see beyond your current struggles?
What does it mean to “sow in faithfulness,” and how are you doing that in your own life?
How does the promise of heaven change the way you endure hardship on earth?
Which of the seven truths about your future encouraged you the most, and why?
