The Handpicked Ones

My parents had a two-year-old boy and a nine-month-old baby girl when they found themselves unexpectedly pregnant with me.

My mom had quit her job to take care of my siblings, so the budget was really tight. Today, as an adult paying my own bills, I understand their feelings.

But growing up hearing the story that I was not planned made me feel loved but not desired. Please, don’t misunderstand me.

My parents have always been loving, and I would not choose another family even if I could. One Saturday when I was already an adult, we were in church, and the sermon was about cases like mine. The preacher said that everyone is very special to God, but the ones whose births were not planned by their parents have a higher purpose in this world because God Himself planned their existence.

Wow! This thought had a huge impact on my life.

I felt specially chosen by God. I dedicated my life to following God’s plans, spending more time with Him, and asking what and where He wants me.

It has been an adventure since then. I have put aside my plans to live His. I can tell you that it is not easy not being the one who plans your own life —what you will study, where you are going to live, where you will work, whom you are going to marry, or even smaller things— but I can guarantee it is wonderful because God never makes a mistake. He knows everything and everyone better.

Many things have happened since then —some of them I never would choose, and others I would make them happen sooner— but I am learning day by day to live God’s way in His timing. This is my story. I don’t know yours, but I am sure God has a higher purpose for your life. Wonderful things or even hard tasks that you never would dream or plan. Let Him show you. Your part is to obey, wait when necessary, and trust Him.

Search for Him with all your heart, and He will make your paths straight and guide you in the middle of the storms and the bright sunshine.

Always keep in mind that His plans are far better than yours.

Kênia Kopita