What God Has For You Is For You: An In-Depth Look At This Bible Verse
The saying “what God has for you is for you” has become a popular refrain, especially among Christians. But where does this expression come from, and what does it really mean? In this comprehensive article, we’ll trace the origins of this verse, analyze the meaning behind it, and see how it can apply to your life today.
If you’re short on time, here’s the quick answer: The expression “what God has for you is for you” comes from Ruth 3:18 in the King James Version of the Bible. It conveys the idea that God’s plan for each person’s life is already determined and will surely come to pass regardless of circumstances or delays.
This is meant to encourage perseverance and instill confidence that God is in control.
The Origin and Context of the Verse
The Book of Ruth in the Bible
The verse “What God has for you is for you” comes from the Book of Ruth in the Old Testament of the Bible. Ruth is one of the shortest books in the Bible with only 4 chapters. It tells the story of a Moabite woman named Ruth who remained loyal to her Israelite mother-in-law Naomi after the deaths of their husbands.
After returning to Bethlehem, Ruth met and later married a wealthy Israelite man named Boaz. Their grandson was Obed, the grandfather of King David.
The Book of Ruth demonstrates God’s amazing providence and protection over two vulnerable women. Though Naomi felt abandoned by God after the deaths of her husband and sons, Ruth’s loyalty and God’s blessings revealed that He had not forgotten them.
God rewards Ruth’s faithfulness by giving her a new husband and child, securing her future when she had nothing.
Ruth 3:18 in the King James Version
The specific verse containing this phrase is Ruth 3:18 in the King James Version of the Bible. It reads:
“Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day.”
In this verse, Naomi tells Ruth to wait patiently after Ruth followed Naomi’s instructions to approach Boaz, their close kinsman, and ask him to marry her. Naomi reassures Ruth that Boaz will act quickly to settle the matter.
The Broader Theme of God’s Providence
While the exact phrase “What God has for you is for you” is not found word for word in the Bible, it summarizes a key theme in Ruth and throughout Scripture. God faithfully guides, protects, and provides for His people. He brings blessings at just the right time according to His wise plan.
We see God’s providence in how He led Ruth to the field of Boaz (Ruth 2:3), directed Boaz to show favor to Ruth (Ruth 2:5-12), and gave Ruth favor in Boaz’s sight (Ruth 2:13). Naomi recognized that Ruth was experiencing God’s blessings when she excitedly declared, “Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead” (Ruth 2:20).
Though God’s plans often seem mysterious, the Book of Ruth encourages us to trust in His providence. As Naomi came to realize, “It is good…that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field” (Ruth 2:22). What God ordains for His children is always for their good.
Interpreting the Meaning of the Passage
God Has a Plan for Each Person
This Bible verse reassures us that God has a unique plan and purpose for each person that He will fulfill in His perfect timing (Jeremiah 29:11). As our loving Heavenly Father, He knows the deepest desires of our hearts better than we know ourselves and wants to graciously give us good gifts (Matthew 7:11).
Though we cannot fully understand God’s ways, we can trust that He is working everything out for our long-term fulfillment and joy.
God’s Plan Will Not Fail
God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and sovereign over all things, so nothing can prevent His perfect will from being accomplished (Isaiah 14:27). He does not make mistakes and His purposes cannot be thwarted (Job 42:2). What God starts, He finishes (Philippians 1:6).
Even when we feel stuck in waiting or discouragement, we can have full confidence that God is still at work behind the scenes and will fulfill His good plans in His perfect timing.
Perseverance and Trust Are Needed
Though God’s plans are certain, the timing and process to fulfillment often requires perseverance, trust, and waiting on the Lord’s part. We need patience to endure through the desert times when God seems silent and faith to continue believing when circumstances seem opposed to God’s promises.
But those who hope in the Lord and wait upon Him will renew their strength (Isaiah 40:31) and inherit all that He has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9). Our job is to remain faithful through the process while God’s job is to fulfill His purposes in His perfect way and time.
Applying This Verse to Your Life
Be Encouraged That God Is Working
This Bible verse reminds us that we can find encouragement in knowing that God is working behind the scenes in our lives. Even when we can’t see the full picture, we can trust that He has a plan and purpose for us.
Remember that God promises to work all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). So even in difficult seasons when we don’t understand why certain things are happening, we can cling to the promise that God is orchestrating events for an ultimate positive outcome according to His will.
Be patient, keep the faith, and believe that His timing and ways are perfect.
Keep Pressing Forward in Faith
Because God has a set future for us, we can move ahead in confidence, faith and expectancy. We don’t need to allow fear, doubt or uncertain circumstances to hold us back. As we align our lives with God’s Word and His principles, we can walk forward in the assurance that He is ordering our steps (Psalm 37:23).
Even when obstacles come, we can pray bold prayers and keep believing God for His promises. Remember that we walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Keep declaring Scripture, praising God through the uncertainties, and moving forward in faith.
Find Comfort Knowing It’s in God’s Hands
There is great comfort and peace knowing that the God of the universe is in control and has a good plan for our lives. We don’t have to strive and orchestrate every detail. As we entrust our situations to Him, we can find rest, knowing that God holds everything in His capable hands.
We are not alone in figuring out our lives and futures. The Bible reminds us to cast all our cares on Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Take comfort in knowing the One who spoke the universe into existence also cares deeply for you. He promises to never leave or forsake you (Hebrews 13:5).
So wherever this life journey takes you, you can find confidence knowing God holds you securely in His hands.
Questions and Concerns Some May Have
What If It Feels Like God’s Plan Isn’t Happening?
It’s understandable to sometimes feel discouraged when God’s timing doesn’t align with ours. But we can take heart in knowing His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9). Though it may not seem like it, He is working behind the scenes arranging things according to His perfect plan and purpose.
We simply need to trust Him even when we can’t trace Him. As Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, God knows the plans He has for us – plans to prosper us and give us a hope and a future. So let’s not lose heart. Our breakthrough could be right around the corner!
Could This Verse Promote Passivity?
On the surface, “What God has for you is for you” could seem to promote passivity – a “que sera sera” or “let go and let God” mentality. However, that is likely not the intent. God calls us to partner with Him in stewarding the gifts and callings He’s placed on our lives.
As Paul says, “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you” (Philippians 2:12-13). God equips and empowers, but we have a role to play too. So this verse shouldn’t lead to passivity, but faith and perseverance as we walk out God’s plan for our lives.
What About Free Will and Personal Responsibility?
God’s sovereignty and human free will might seem at odds, but the Bible presents both. God is working out His purposes, yet we make real choices that have real consequences. His plan isn’t fatalistic, but takes into account our free will. As C.S.
Lewis said, “The truth is God gave us a free will, and then devised a plan to account for the way we were likely to use it.” So this verse shouldn’t be taken to mean that everything that happens is “meant to be” in a fatalistic sense. We have wisdom to gain, mistakes to avoid, lessons to learn.
But ultimately, God causes all things to work together for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28). He can redeem even our mistakes to fulfill His purposes if we walk with Him.
Conclusion
In closing, while the saying “what God has for you is for you” is simple, the truth behind it is profound. This verse from Ruth reminds us that God has a purpose for each life and His will cannot be thwarted. Cling to this promise when you face trials and uncertainties.
Keep pursuing God’s plan for you. What He has in store will surely come to pass in His perfect timing.
