As many moments of my life have been spent in looking back, I have spent an equal or greater amount of time trying to look ahead.
I love to anticipate potentially happy times. When I was working at a very stressful job, seeing my vacation dates coming up on the calendar gave me hope.
When times are tough on any level, we like to imagine a future where things are better. When we see no possibility of earthly relief, we anticipate heaven.
But the future is a challenge for people like me. I am a planner, organizer and a list maker. I try to anticipate any possible problems and plan ways to avoid them. This translates into a life of worrying.
Every surprise turn of events I never could have anticipated brings new worries about why I missed planning for it … and what other surprises are waiting just ahead.
Jesus had some very direct Words for us worriers. Matthew 6:25-34 records Jesus’ extended commands not to worry. I encourage you to read it.
Among other things, Jesus said, “Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life …can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
“The pagans run after all these things and 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 as well.
“Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
The first part sounds reassuring, but if there is going to be trouble, shouldn’t we be at least a little concerned?
Jesus pulled no punches.
“In this world you will have trouble.”
John 16:33
Satan would like us to stop right there and start biting our nails. But there is more to that verse. Jesus continued.
“But take heart! I have overcome the world!”
“Peace I leave with you; My Peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:27
We now come full circle to Who is God and who is not. (See Post from February 2.) Can we trust a Known God with a future unknown to us, but completely known to Him?
Yes, we can trust Him! He is faithful and reliable. He is walking with us every step of The Way.
And when I try to run ahead, as I still do, I feel His Hand gently pulling me back, saying, “Not so fast. Don’t run ahead. Walk with Me!”
