now what?

Written by Missy 2/17/2026

Hello friend! If you’re reading this post, I’m sure it’s because you’re wondering how to move forward – how to take steps towards your future, despite what happened in your past. But before we get started, know this.

Your past does NOT define your future. God does.

Even when we don’t see how He could possibly make anything good come from what happened (trust me, I’ve been there), we need to have hope. Romans 8:28 says “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.”
I know how it feels to be sitting in your room wondering what happens now. I was blessed to go to college for free – I ended up getting two degrees and graduated amidst my circumstances. And I don’t say this to boast, but to tell you that even when it seems like things are going so well for someone, that is not always the case.
Even now, I don’t know exactly where I’m going in my future. But one thing I do know is that I love to help others! God has given each of us a passion. He has called us and placed a desire in our hearts. Listen to that desire. Don’t ignore the Holy Spirit.

God doesn’t always light our whole paths – but He will light our next step.

I found this truth very important and helpful as I questioned what it meant to move forward. Even when I didn’t know what the next month would look like; let alone the next day, I was able to trust that God would never leave my questions unanswered. Know that this exile you are going through is not the end. God will not leave you in this place.
One Bible verse that really encouraged me during these times was Jeremiah 29:11. You may have heard it, or maybe not. The Israelites are in exile in Babylon, and God is telling them to live their lives in this place of exile. They should not lose hope and listen to the prophets who spread lies among the people. God is telling them that he has placed them here for a reason. He knows exactly what He’s doing.

“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.”

I know that sometimes it’s hard to trust that God does know what he’s doing, but He does and he cares. He designed this story for you! Right now, what you’re going through is a GOOD part of it. In Jeremiah 29:12, God tells the Israelites that they should call upon Him. They should pray to Him, and He will hear them. Don’t hold back. He longs to hear you.
So have hope friend. Know that even when life looks like it’s hit a dead end, and there’s nowhere to move from here, you aren’t alone. When you stand at the crossroads, God is there with you.

God leads you through the valleys, over the hills, and across the plains. Not a day goes by when He’s not right by your side.

I hope this message encouraged you today. That you can go through the day with new-found hope. Have faith friend – and know that God has good plans in store for you.

With love,
Missy