My "Misplaced" Life

My "Misplaced" Life

"Has someone seen the life I planned?
It seems it's been misplaced
I've looked in every corner
It's lost without a trace..."
~ Beth Moore~
From the poem: "The Life I Planned "

I could not have said this any better! This is exactly how I often feel. It used to bother me a lot. Now, it bothers me a little. How could I be living a life I did not sign up for? Or did I?

I did not plan on having 4 kids in 7 years. But when I got married, I knew that children were going to be a big part of the family we wanted to build. I just didn't realize how big and how soon it was going to happen.

I did not plan on raising my family so far away from the one I grew up with. But when I got married, I knew I would be moving away, miles away. I just did not realize how hard it was going to be.

I did not plan on becoming a stay-at-home mom. I thought I would at least still be working part-time. But when my 2nd child arrived, I knew it was the right thing for our family. I just did not realize how big a task this would be and how taxing it could be.

I did not plan on living a comfortable life here in the States. But God gave it to me anyway. He has given me more than I can ask for.

I planned on having a healthy marriage, a relationship that is rooted in God and that grows in love and respect each day. God gave me that.

I planned on having a happy family, full of love, laughter and life. God gave me that.

I planned on having a content personal life, where I feel fulfilled and my talents utilized. God gave me that.

Yes, I had plans, a lot of plans. Some plans have happened. Some plans have been "misplaced". But one plan has remained constant and will remain true - God's plan for me. I've held fast to His promise and He has not let me down.

"For I know well the plans I have in mind for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare, not for woe! plans to give you a future full of hope." (Jer. 29:11 (NAB))