"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope."

Jeremiah 29:11 has become one of the most familiarized and frequently recited Bible verses of today. Though there is a plan set out for each of us, how often is it that we accept it? It is one thing to know, but another thing to trust. It can be hard sometimes to fathom that our paths are predestined and can turn in ways so unbelievably unexpected. I can't tell you how many times I have asked myself: "why did this happen to me?" or "what did I do to deserve this?" or "this has to be a mistake."

The Lord, however, does not make mistakes so why is it so hard to believe that everything happens for a reason? Simple answer: it's not. The disbelief and distrust is completely controllable. We get so caught up in the "why's" and the worries that we forget that there is something in store for us. We start believing that we know best in all situations, especially those we are in control of. We focus on the wants and materialistic desires of the world. We worry about the image and the reputation of ourselves.

There is always time for stress and worry, but the Lord says, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life." and "Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?" (Matthew 6:25 and 6:27). Isn't it amazing that there is an answer for everything? I LIVE by that second quote because of its truth. Worrying will never get anybody anywhere but deeper in the pool of stress and anxiety.

Everyone has a different story and/or background that has shaped them into who they are today. Regardless of the circumstance, everything happens for a reason and one has to trust that something good will come out of it.

Trust in the plan, give all of you worries over, and you will find peace and happiness.