I began the day with a heavy and stressed heart. I had to lead a meeting that would most likely be confrontational and intense. All morning I prayed for the Lord to take care of it in a way that only he can.
“Lord, I don’t know what to do, and I don’t know how this will turn out. Give me the wisdom and courage to lead well. Give me knowledge and discernment to make the right decisions. Give me boldness when the right decision is difficult. Bless and anoint for your glory.”
The meeting went as smooth as it could. Everyone responded with kindness and the things that needed to be addressed were addressed. I left feeling relieved and thankful. God had come through…again.
The Lord doesn’t always answer our prayers the way we want. He always does what is good and right, but that can look differently in various situations. Sometimes, he makes the meeting we pray for go smoothly. Other times, we may have to face adversity and be faithful in the midst of difficulty. However, whether he answers our prayers that way we want, we know that he promises to be with us, help us, and give us wisdom and strength.
The Whole Story
While reading The Dawn Treader, I couldn’t help but wonder why the characters in the story are often uncertain or afraid. Even when they are unsure of where they are sailing, even when the storms threaten to capsize the ship, and even when they are met with unfriendly islanders, don’t they realize that Aslan is going to help them? Why fear?
I feel the same way when reading stories in Scripture. Why are the Israelites afraid as they wander through the desert? Even when they lack food or the water is bitter, can they not see that God has taken care of them all this time and trust that he will do so again? Does Moses not see that God will give him the words? Does David not realize God will forgive him if he confesses? Can Gideon not see that God will deliver no matter how few soldiers he has in his army?
It’s easy to question those in a story or those from the past, but I am guilty as well. I, too, grow weary and afraid. I also wonder where or how my next need will be met when it seems impossible. Fear rises in my heart and uncertainty clogs my ability to see with the eyes of faith. But, isn’t God just as faithful with me as he was to the children of Israel? Hasn’t he proved himself over and over in my life and in his word? I have just as much reason to trust him has the Pevensie children did to trust Aslan. So, why do I fear?
If I were reading my own story as an outside observer, I would tell myself “James, can’t you see God is going to help you? Why are you so afraid?” When we are in the midst of the story or situation, it can be hard to see how God will work. But, God’s history of faithfulness to me and others should quiet my concerns.
Everywhere I Look
“Every time I look up, I see God’s faithfulness.” My son and I sang this at the top of our lungs in the truck as we drove home. Though I’ve heard the line many times, for some reason it struck me. God continues to show his faithfulness even though I certainly don’t deserve it. He continues to provide, he continues to bless, and he continues to reveal his goodness to me.
Yet, fear still works in my thoughts. Though I’m safe in his hands, I still wonder how things will work out. I know that in this fallen world, not everything will work out fine. There will be heartache, there will be loss, and there will be times I struggle to see his goodness.
God, give me the faith to believe that you are always good no matter the circumstance. Help me to see your fingerprints in my story and trust that you will provide. When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, help me stand on the promises of God.
100% relatable