There is no doubt that we live in turbulent times. Our generation has access to communications technology that provides us with a global view of the world that was unimaginable in prior generations. We need only tune into CNN or spend a few minutes on our favorite internet news site before we are inundated with horrendous accounts of war, genocide, famine, crime, and hatred. We see world governments reeling under the weight of financial collapse, civil unrest and lawlessness.
These are certainly fearful times, and if we are not vigilant, we can get caught up with the rest of the world in a mindset of fear and doubt. At times such as these, we can often drift, unwittingly, away from our faith and into a gloomy and doubtful emotional state that can alter our very personalities and rob us of peace and joy.
When we see the pain and suffering that surrounds us on every side, we are tempted to think that this misery might touch us also. Will I get sick and die? What if a crisis affects my loved ones? Will I lose my job? My house? All my life savings? Why would I be spared? After all, what makes me so special?
At this point, it would be wise for us to remember the words of Jesus in John 16:33:
We all have our share of troubles. The scriptures tell us that, in this world we shall have tribulation. But Jesus encourages us to “be of good cheer.” Our basis for such a conviction is not derived from some feel-good positive-attitude platitude, but from the certainty that our God is for us and works on our behalf. Psalm 34:10 tells us:
It doesn’t say we will never have troubles, but it lets us know that God is present and ready to deliver us from them.
Look at what is said in Psalm 46:1:
So when adversity strikes, we do not resort to panic and react, along with the rest of the world, with emotional torment, fear and despair. During such times, it is wise to remember the 23rd Psalm, which assures us that
And the reason we are to have such confidence is found in the following verse:
Therefore, we have a decision to make. Trusting in God’s providence is not automatic. It requires a step of faith on our part. When trouble strikes, we have two choices, fear or trust. It is that simple. We can be like Job who said of God,
or we can be like Job’s wife who advised Job to
The former stance will lead to victory, peace and joy, the latter one to despair and ruin.
Our destiny in times such as these lies within our own grasp. We can determine the course of our life. Will we succumb to fear and despair? Or will we stand firm and live a victorious life, confident in His ability to bring us successfully through any adversity this life can throw at us?
If we make the correct choice and resolve to stand firm in our faith in God’s providence and protection, He will step into our situation and help us. It is this very decision to trust Him that causes Him to move on our behalf. Psalm 37:40 tells us:
It might be difficult to believe that God cares what we think or that He is aware of our thoughts at all. But rest assured that He is very aware and He cares deeply how we relate to His grace.
“Because they trust in Him” is the key phrase. It is the very act of trusting Him that causes God to move on our behalf. We do not need to fear like those who have no faith, but we are confident that we are the sons and daughters of a powerful, loving Father who watches over us with great care. We trust in Him.