January 2020 - LPNI

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January 2020

The Next Phase

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to you a future and a hope. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Yesterday I was alone when I closed the door of my office and left my position as district representative for Thrivent Financial for the last time after 36 years. There was a moment of sadness, but I also felt relief and joy. Relief that many of the “responsibilities” of the position have now been passed on to my highly competent assistant. Joy in knowing that I have served so many people with both their financial planning and with their personal lives. I have been blessed.

I am confident that God knows what the next phase of my life will be. It may be good with many new avenues of enjoyable pursuit going forward, or it may be filled with declining health, disappointments, and losses in my life. But whatever this new phase in my life holds, I know with certainty that God and my lovely wife, Sue, will always be at my side. I have already set goals for this new phase and have plans to work as a California Highway Patrol Volunteer, remain president of my congregation and continue to work as an assistant in the financial field 2 days a week.

Do I have fears going forward? Sure! I worry about my health and my failing memory. I have the human fear of getting closer each day to my earthly death. One thing, however, that I do not fear is the blessed assurance that when I end my time here on God’s earth, I will be welcomed into eternity in the arms of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Until that time comes, I will live my life in retirement with purpose, kindness, and love. I know that this “next phase” of my life will be a blessing!

Be still and know that I am Lord. (Psalm 46:10)

Don Neff

San Diego, California USA