Thursday, April 30, 2026

Bible in a Year: Job 27-28 | Matthew 16

There is a deep reassurance in knowing that God’s plan is not random, fragile, or uncertain. It is intentional, steady, and unfolding with purpose - and what’s even more incredible - we are part of it. Ephesians 1:11 reminds us that God chose us in advance and is actively working everything out according to his plan. That means your life, your gifts, your story, and even your challenges are woven into something far greater than you can see.

Ephesians 1:11
Furthermore, because we are united with Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for he chose us in advance, and he makes everything work out according to his plan.

Sometimes we look at our lives and wonder if what we do really matters. We compare ourselves to others, or we feel small in the face of big needs and big problems. But God never measures significance the way the world does. He doesn’t overlook quiet faithfulness, unseen acts of kindness, or the steady love you show in your home, workplace, or community. In his plan, nothing offered to him is wasted.

Being included in God’s plan doesn’t mean we have to have everything figured out. It doesn’t require perfection or extraordinary talent. It simply requires willingness - a heart that says, “Here I am, Lord. Send me” (Isaiah 6:8). God delights in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things because it reveals his power, not ours. Throughout Scripture, he consistently chooses people who feel unqualified, overlooked, or unsure. Yet he calls them anyway, equips them, and places them exactly where they need to be.

You are no different. God has already prepared good works for you to walk in (Ephesians 2:10 NKJV). He has already placed you in relationships, roles, and moments where your presence makes a difference. Even when you can’t see the full picture, he is faithfully weaving your life into his larger story of redemption and hope.

You are included. You are chosen. You are part of something God himself is shaping - and he never makes mistakes in his design (Deuteronomy 32:4).

Questions: 
Where in your life do you need the reminder that God has already included you in his plan? 

How might God be using your gifts, even in ways you haven’t noticed yet? 

Next Steps: 
Take one intentional action today that reflects your role in God’s plan, whether through encouragement, service, or prayer. 

Prayer: 
Father, thank you for choosing me and including me in your purpose. Help me trust that you are working all things together, even when I can’t see the full picture. Show me how to use my gifts today in a way that honors you and blesses others. Amen. 

Series Theme Verse:
Ephesians 1:5
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

This post was written by Julie Estep, a Perrysburg attendee and regular contributor to the Daily LivingItOut.