We often experience the anxiousness associated with the future, because the future is unknown. So, we worry about the future, because it may have an adverse effect on us and the things we care about. These things might include our investments, our freedoms, our national security, the threat of war or calamity, job security, our health, important relationships, and our children (just to name a few!)
In our day, there is much that is unknown and much to fear, and it does have an affect on us. Fear either paralyzes us and prevents us from doing anything or it captivates our hearts and attempts to makes us do everything—with the false hope of gaining control. But control is something we will never possess!
The sobering reality is that the only thing that we really have control over is our thoughts and our actions. So, as good as any of us might be—we truly have very little control. The world is simply too big for any of us to manage.
Now, this conclusion should not lead us to despair but to trust in the One who controls everything. I am reminded of Matthew 6 when Jesus said,
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?…O you of little faith…do not worry…your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you…”
Matthew 6:25-33
We, most assuredly, live in some unnerving times, but we also have the author of life as our comforter, guide, and protector. He sees. He cares. He is faithful. And we can face the future with hope and confidence, because we know and trust the One who has written it! So, let us be reminded that in our fearful and anxious moments that we turn to the One who controls the universe and experience His peace as we trust Him and His provision.