This week we're doing things a little differently...
No matter who you are, where you're from, or how strong your faith is, we all have our struggles. And get this: your struggle may not look like your neighbor's struggle – and this is okay. Yes, we have different obstacles and sufferings that we endure, but we serve the same God. And He truly has our best at heart.
This week is for those who are struggling in silence, those who are fatigued, all who are "weak and heavy laden" (Matt. 11:28). It’s a collection of 5 verses picked by the 2:20 team that you can hold onto in the midst of your struggles.
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Verse 1: "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." – Jeremiah 29:11 ESV
The Lord of all the universe has a very specific and special plan for your life—even when we don't feel or see it stirring up around us.
But here’s the thing: this verse was spoken to people in exile—people who felt forgotten, displaced, and maybe even betrayed by God. Yet God’s reminder was clear: “I have not abandoned you. I’m still writing your story.”
Sometimes we assume God’s plans mean comfort or immediate blessing. But His plans are bigger than that—they’re about redemption, about restoring hope where we’ve lost it. Whatever season you’re in, hold tight: His plan is unfolding even now, in the silence and in the struggle.
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Verse 2: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding." – Proverbs 3:5 ESV
This verse is easier said than done. Because we’re human beings that crave control, letting go can feel like free-falling. But trust isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about knowing Who holds them.
God doesn’t ask for a partial trust or a backup plan. He calls us to trust with all our heart because His understanding is infinite, while ours is limited. You may not see the way forward, but faith says, “Even here, I will lean on Him.” What area of your life are you still trying to figure out on your own? Hand it to Him today.
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Verse 3: "but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." – Isaiah 40:31 ESV
Waiting on God isn’t passive—it’s active surrender. It’s continuing to show up, pray, and believe even when you’re weary and don’t see the finish line. Isaiah reminds us that waiting isn’t wasted time. It’s in the waiting that God strengthens us, reshapes our perspective, and prepares us for the next season.
Picture the eagle—it soars because it knows how to ride the wind. You too were created to rise, not because of your strength, but because of His Spirit lifting you. Don’t rush ahead. Don’t give up. Stay in the wait and let Him renew you.
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Verse 4: " And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." – Philippians 1:6
God never starts something He doesn’t intend to finish. Maybe you’re in a chapter of life that feels unfinished, like progress is slow or even backwards. But the Author of your story is still writing. What He began—your growth, your healing, your calling—He will carry to completion.
This isn’t about your ability to stay faithful; it’s about His. Rest in the confidence that He is working in the seen and unseen. You’re not forgotten. You’re under construction by the Master Builder.
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Verse 5: "Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act." – Psalm 37:5 ESV
This verse is a powerful call to action: commit. It means to roll over your plans, your worries, your whole life onto God’s shoulders and leave them there. True commitment isn’t a half-hearted prayer—it’s a full surrender of every outcome to Him.
And here’s His promise: He will act. Maybe not how or when you expect, but always for your good and His glory. What’s weighing you down today? What if you placed it fully in His hands and let Him move?
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This week we can apply these verses by remembering the truth that they hold about the goodness and intentionality of God; and by allowing these truths to guide the steps we take in our daily lives, we can see more of God in the midst of our chaos and serve as a light to those around us as well!
Prayer
Dear God,
Thank You for being a God or provision and of grace. Thank You for being at work in my life even when I don't see it and for blessing me with the opportunity to be apart of your kingdom. Your love is everlasting and Your words are truth; and guide me as I walk in Your truth this week. Amen.
