God's Eternal Plan

Scripture Readings: 

1 Peter 1:20

He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was revealed in these last times for you.

John 17:24

Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, so that they will see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the world’s foundation.

Psalm 72:19

Blessed be his glorious name forever; the whole earth is filled with his glory. Amen and amen.

Commentary: 

God’s Eternal Plan (Dallas White)

It can be tempting to read the Creation narrative and conclude that when Adam and Eve ate of the Tree, their disobedience derailed God’s perfect plan. After all, in that moment, it seems as though all is lost. The relationship and intimacy that Adam and Eve were created to enjoy had ended suddenly; the unforeseen effect of their sin. 

And yet, none of this caught our great God off guard! God the Father had resolved before the foundations of the world — not after the fall — to send His only begotten and beloved Son. His eternal plan was unfolding even in the midst of the mess made by sin. When the Son was sent He trampled sin and death by dying — the just for the unjust — and being raised to life again. His life, death and resurrection have made it possible for us to experience what was lost in Eden — a loving relationship with God, our Father. 

Sin didn’t surprise God nor did it thwart His sovereign plan. For this reason, we sing with the Psalmist, “blessed be His glorious name forever!” 

Prayer & Reflection: 

Wonderful Father, we worship you today for your eternal foresight and knowledge. In your unfathomable wisdom you knew that — given the choice — we would run from you. Like sheep, we would stray, turning each one to his own way. And yet, you have pursued us! Thank you that, while we were still sinners, you sent your Son to die for us. His sacrifice has shattered the separation spawned by our sin so we rejoice today in the relationship we have with you!