God Spoke Through Waterfalls

By Julie C. Hyde

“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 (NIV)

On the drive to work one morning, I meditated on my devotional reading about God’s plan for our lives. One phrase had read, “God has a plan for my life, and it is better than the one I am living.” In tears, I realized I didn’t believe that for my life. After a series of life disappointments, I realized that I believed it for others, but not for me.

Several months later, I visited a local wildlife center. From the road, I could see a pretty waterfall. I walked toward the waterfall with its water rolling over rocks with white foam. While admiring the beauty, I noticed that I could also hear water coming from my left side. I walked further into the woods to discover another waterfall, even more spectacular than the first. The water poured over a high ledge into a deep rock-bordered blue lagoon.

As I drove home, I told God how excited I was and how beautiful His creation was. I also told Him that it was such a surprise to find that a more beautiful waterfall, initially hidden from my sight, was so much better than the one I thought wanted to see.

With His still, small voice speaking to my thoughts, God said, “That is what I mean for you. You think you are going for a good goal, but I have something even better for you as you draw closer to Me. When I said ‘I have a plan for your life, and it is better than the one you are living,’ that is what I meant. That is what Jeremiah 29:11 is all about. Believe Me for that.” Tears began streaming as I realized the wonder of it all.

As soon as I got home, I picked up my devotional book. When I looked at the front cover, I realized it was a picture with waterfalls! God was confirming His words to me earlier by assuring me that it was Him who impressed those thoughts. God is so awesome!

I am so thankful that God speaks to us, and I treasure that He spoke to me in a personal way. Admittedly I still struggle with believing Jeremiah 29:11 for my life, but it is easier to trust His word when I remember God’s words to me.

Permission to Republish by the Author. re: Standing On God’s Promises, pg. 126. Written by Julie C. Hyde.