One of the challenges every Christian will face is trusting the Lord in uncertain times. When news broke out of the horrific terror attacks in Israel and the ongoing war on October 7, people worldwide suddenly felt a sense of sadness for the moment and uncertainty about the future. These occurrences remind us of the evil in our world and the need for the gospel in every city and nation. Trusting the Lord is essential for our mission on earth. Trusting God in uncertain times is a blessing and a battle for all believers. The wisdom of Proverbs 3 can bring us strength and encouragement for the mission ahead.
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV
Let me give you three maxims that have helped me apply this wisdom in my life when circumstances are challenging.
1. Trust God entirely.
(v. 5a) "Trust in the Lord with all your heart..."
Trusting God entirely involves relinquishing the burden of anxiety and control. We acknowledge that our limited understanding and efforts are insufficient and hand over our concerns to the One who knows the end of the matter from the beginning.
“ Trust the past to the mercy of God, entrust the present to His love, and the future to His providence.” St. Augustine
2. Trust God exclusively.
v. 5b "...and ‘do not lean on your own understanding.’"
Trusting God exclusively is an act of faith that challenges our tendency to rely solely on our strength, connections, or solutions. It's an acknowledgment that human power is limited and often influenced by our circumstances and emotions. Trusting God ultimately means surrendering our need for complete control and leaning on His infinite understanding, wisdom, and guidance.
"Faith is not the belief that God will do what you want. It is the belief that God will do what is right." – Max Lucado
3.Trust God expectantly.
v. 6a "‘In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.’"
Trusting God expectantly is an act of faith that entails acknowledging God in every aspect of our lives. It's a recognition that God desires to be intimately involved in our journey, guiding us along the path of righteousness and purpose. This trust is marked by a sense of anticipation, believing that as we acknowledge God in all our ways, He will bring clarity and direction to our life's journey.
“Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” – Corrie Ten Boom
Whether you are currently facing something that to the human standard seems impossible, or your uneasiness and anxiety is aroused by recent news headlines or debates on social media, you can be at peace and live encouraged knowing the Lord promises to guide and walk with those who love Him and live according to His will. So if you're living with fear, anxiety, or worry – TRUST that your Father in Heaven sees you, hears you, walks with you and promises to guide you.
If you haven't yet put your trust in Jesus Christ and want to, or are curious what it might look like to accept Jesus into your heart, please contact me via our email on the contact page – I'd love nothing more than to walk with you through this exciting new journey or answer any questions you might have, especially on this topic.
About Pastor Bob Moya
Pastor Bob Moya has served as the lead pastor with his wife Candace at City Chapel in Arlington, Texas for over 22+ years. He is currently wrapping up his dissertation at Regent University and will graduate in the spring of 2024 with a doctorate degree in Spiritual Renewal and Leadership. When not serving at the church, you'll find Bob enjoying a good read at Barnes & Noble, sipping a nitro cold brew or black coffee at Starbucks, or spending time with his family.
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