This one verse out of a million in the Bible has made such an impact in my life. I even had it engraved in my high school senior ring. This verse is one of the reasons why my faith is so strong.

So what does this verse even mean? To put it simply, it means that everything happens for a reason. It's very cliche, but there's a deeper meaning with Jeremiah 29:11. It's the answer I need to hear when I have so many questions. When I look back into the past, I see how God's plan was in the works at that moment. When I have the opportunity to attend a retreat, rally, school, etc., it's because there was a purpose.

"For I know the plans I have for you,"

One example is not getting into my first-choice high school. I was completely devastated back then, but now that I look at, I wouldn't want to go to any other school than my alma mater. I was able to meet so many people throughout those four years that I wouldn't be able to befriend if I attended the other school. God knew how much I would grow as a person with the people I would crossed paths with. I am forever grateful for the beautiful opportunities.

declares the Lord,

Sometimes, I don't always get everything that I want to happen. I could pray extra hard to be chosen for something, and it may not work out in the end. My plan may have been disrupted, but it's God's plan that ultimately are put into action. So when something doesn't go my way, I accept that there is a reason behind it.

"plans to prosper you and not harm you"

What I went through (such as depression or other circumstances) has made me who I am today. I have prospered into a strong, independent person because of it. Things haven't gone badly as a result of something else happening. It really is true that God's plans are to help you grow spiritually, physically, and mentally.

"plans to give you hope and a future".

I've learned so much about everything that has happened so far in my life. It's not like God is directly speaking to me where I can actually hear his voice or anything. It's more through his actions that I get answers. One answer can lead to a new path in life.

It's also the small things. It's learning that your purpose in life is out there somewhere. It's being or not being in a relationship with a person. It's getting into a school of your choice or not. It's accepting that a loved one is terminally sick. It's thinking one particular career is the right one but realizing that it's not your thing. It's possibly getting chosen or not chosen to be on a mission trip to Nicaragua and being OK with either decision even if I wanted it really badly. It's knowing that there is something greater out there to hope for.

If more people understood/use this verse more often, there would be less tears when you get a "no" from life. It's getting that "no" and seeing it as a future "yes".