The Author of Our Stories

I’ve always loved reading. When I was younger and enjoying a book, I would turn to the last page to see how the story ended and to find out what happened to the characters I was reading about—and whether there was a happy ending!

As an adult, I rarely do this. But I do sometimes wonder what the future holds. Perhaps just a peek might be helpful?
We know that’s not how life works. We do not need to know the things we think we need to know.

I am so very grateful that I am not the author of my own personal story. Your story isn’t an autobiography either—it is a biography written with grace and wisdom. Every new chapter speaks to God’s purpose for you.

I am learning that, through all the chapters of my life, God in his grace is teaching me to trust and be patient. There are many unexpected twists, difficulties and frustrations, and many are beyond my control. But the author—God—knows how the story is going to end, and I have a thankful heart.

Scripture says that by ‘fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith’ (Hebrews 12:2a), I have no need to be anxious or live in fear. I can depend on God because ‘…we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose’ (Romans 8:28). And: ‘“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).

As my story continues, I want to say that although I have tried at times to write my own story, I know that God’s promise is that every chapter of my life is written with love and purpose—and yours is too.

Commissioner Janine Donaldson
Territorial Commander