The Upper Room Devotional 16 March 2026, Monday Message
Wherever We Are
Robert E. Boertien (Oregon, USA)
Today’s Reading
Jeremiah 29:4-7
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“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.” – Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
I was riding my electric bicycle along a rural road and stopped on a bridge to admire the scenic views. There was a small river below and mountains all around. In the middle of the stream was a large boulder — its top just inches above the fast-moving water. I was surprised to see a leafy sapling growing from the rock. It looked to be about three feet tall and in good health. From my vantage point above, I could detect no other growth on the rock. Whether the seed was blown there by the wind or dropped by a bird, the young tree had somehow found a foothold and was flourishing.
I thought of today’s reading in Jeremiah. It encourages us to embrace our current circumstances — to survive and even thrive — knowing that God has a plan for our lives and for how we can be of service to others.
Wherever we find ourselves in life, there are many ways we can bless others as we accept God’s blessings for us. We can reflect Christ and offer Christian witness in our communities through our acts of forgiveness and love.
Thought for the Day
God can use me to make a difference wherever I am.
Prayer Focus
For ways to serve my community
Read More
More from Robert E. Boertien
Today’s Prayer
Gracious God, show us opportunities to bless others wherever we are. Amen.
The Upper Room Devotional 16 March 2026 is a daily devotional magazine published in more than 30 languages and 100 countries around the world. The daily meditations are written by readers of the magazine and others interested in sharing their faith experiences through writing—both laity and clergy, published authors and new writers. Read More