Probably one of the biggest lessons we are all learning this year is to say, “If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that” (James 4:15). Our “normal” routine has become anything but normal. Probably in our lifetimes, we have never experienced the uncertainty we have seen this year. Everyday brings new reports that are almost impossible to understand – of increased racial tension, a virus that apparently cannot be contained, elections that are still debated, and big ups and downs in the economy. So, how is your heart doing with all these changes? Is it happy, fearful, depressed, frustrated, or at peace? You probably have felt frustration and concern, but can your heart be at peace even in the midst of confusion? The simple answer is that it depends on whom or what you are trusting. Will you trust the news reporters? The politicians? Reports from other countries? Your neighbor or friend? Your own thoughts? The Bible, the source of answers, says your heart will be at rest only when you put your trust in the Lord.
When Moses feared to obey God’s command to go to Pharaoh and tell him to let God’s people go free, God told him not to fear, but to know that “I AM” would be with him (Exodus 3:12-14). When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into the fiery furnace, it was the Son of God who showed up with them (Daniel 3:25). When Joseph was hated by his brothers, forced into slavery, lied about when he did right, thrown into prison and forgotten, he still was at peace, because he trusted that “God meant it unto good” (Genesis 50:20). When Paul was troubled, perplexed, persecuted, forsaken, and delivered unto death, he could continue on because for him “to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21). The Bible is full of examples of people who were able to have great peace in times of great troubles by trusting in the Lord. Your life can have that same peace. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3). This year has been the perfect time to “be careful little eyes what you see… ears what you hear… mouth what you say… hands what you do… feet where you go… (and lastly) heart whom you trust.” Trust in the Lord!
