Divine Appointments: Seeing God’s Hand in Our Life’s Journey

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Have you ever considered how the seemingly random events of your life might be part of a grand design? As a novelist, I spend countless hours plotting my books, carefully crafting story arcs that give each character’s journey purpose and meaning. This meticulous planning is a reminder of how God, the ultimate Author, orchestrates the events of our lives with divine precision. In my novel Breath of Bones, co-written with my son, Nathan, we wanted to show how God’s hand is evident even amid the most challenging circumstances.

Breath of Bones is set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany. It was a time of immense fear and uncertainty. Through characters like Kateřina, Nathan and I wanted to show the divine appointments that guided their paths. Kateřina’s encounters and mission weren’t just coincidences. Instead, they were (perhaps) carefully orchestrated by a loving God’s hand. Our God who sees the end from the beginning. Though these characters are fictional, they represent real people who stood against the evil of their time, embodying the courage and faith we are called to have.

Writing Breath of Bones was a deeply personal experience. It reminded me that God plots each of our lives, just as I plot my characters’ days. God sees every twist and turn and knows exactly how each piece fits into the bigger picture. As we read in Jeremiah 29:11, God reassures us, “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.” We can trust that our lives are not a series of random events. Instead, they are a carefully woven plot of divine appointments overseen by a loving God. And while events may be challenging, they are ultimately for our good.

Three Ways to See God’s Hand and Pray for Divine Appointments

1. Start with Prayer: Begin each day by asking God to open your eyes to His divine appointments. Pray for awareness and sensitivity to recognize His hand in your daily life. Isaiah 58:11 reminds us of God’s power to lift us up: “And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.” 
2. Reflect on Your Journey: Reflect on your life and identify moments where God’s guidance was evident. These reflections can strengthen your faith and remind you of His constant presence. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
3. Engage with Scripture: Immerse yourself in God’s Word and learn from the stories of those who experienced divine appointments. Whether it’s Abraham’s call, Esther’s bravery, or Paul’s mission, these accounts can inspire you to seek God’s guidance in your own life. Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the divine appointments You have orchestrated in our lives. Help us recognize Your hand in every situation and trust Your perfect timing. Open our hearts to see Your guidance and embrace Your plans for us. Surround us with Your peace and lead us on the path You have set before us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. Can you recall a time when you recognized God’s hand guiding you through a challenging situation? How did this experience shape your faith?
2. What steps can you take to become more aware of God’s divine appointments daily?
3. How can the stories of biblical figures and historical heroes inspire you to trust God’s plan for your journey?

As we navigate our life’s journey, let us remember that God is the master storyteller, weaving each event into a narrative of hope and redemption. By seeking His guidance and trusting in His providence, we can embrace the divine appointments He has prepared for us, knowing that His plans are always for our good.

Additional Resources

Journal Through the Bible in 2024

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