Struggles as Christians: How To Overcome (Part three)
Uncertainty is one of our struggles.
It’s hard to trust when things are uncertain. And yet, when you think about it, there is always some degree of uncertainty in life. Life is ever-evolving. And some years it seems like change is the norm.
And even when life seems certain, wait a second. It will change. Count on it.
In fact, there is more uncertainty in life than there is certainty. But it can be especially challenging for Christians who are called to walk by faith, and not by sight. This journey requires a deep reliance on God’s promises, even when the outcomes are unclear. When the path ahead is unclear, trusting God can feel like stepping into the unknown without a safety net.
Fear doesn’t help
I’m a natural scaredy-cat. It’s hard for me to trust God. I have to step out in faith all the time, or I would never walk at all. I’ve done a few author promotions, and I’ve trembled in fear the whole time. I’m afraid to even talk about my books. How ridiculous is that? Hundreds and hundreds of hours of work, and yet I get scared every time someone asks me about my books. (God has really been convicting me about this.)
Embrace the uncertainty.
However, embracing this uncertainty can lead to profound growth and spiritual maturity, enabling us to navigate life’s complexities with greater grace and strength. It allows us to develop resilience, a crucial skill that helps us bounce back from adversity, and fosters a greater understanding of God’s sovereignty over our circumstances.
In recognizing that our experiences are part of a divine plan, we find comfort and peace. This perspective encourages us to trust in the unfolding journey, providing the opportunity to surrender our fears and anxieties to Him. We can know that we are guided and supported every step of the way. Ultimately, this process cultivates a deeper relationship with God, helping us to grow in faith and compassion towards ourselves and others.
However, this is also probably one of the hardest things to do as Christians. Sometimes, visualization can help. Think of a windy path through the woods. You can’t see around the corner. But God walks before you with a flashlight illuminating your path. He looks back at you now and then and says, “It’s OK. Just keep following me.”
In these moments, verses like this become a vital lifeline.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to him and and he will you make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Real-Life Reflection: David faced a season of career uncertainty that left him questioning his purpose. He had always been a planner, but when his carefully laid plans fell apart, he felt lost. David was on the fast track to a big promotion when a car accident derailed him and left him permanently injured. He knew his career was over.
But through prayer and seeking counsel from trusted mentors, David began to see God’s plan unfolding in ways he had not expected. He learned to take one step at a time. He trusted that God was guiding him, even when the destination wasn’t clear.
The career path he had planned took another, but better turn. He learned he could do even greater things because of the uncertainty of his health. Eventually, he learned to appreciate his limitations. Like the apostle Paul, he learned grace through the “thorn in his side.”(2 Corinthians 12:7-10.)
Devotional Questions:
- When have you faced uncertainty in your life?
- How did you learn to trust God during that time?
- What steps can you take to strengthen your faith in uncertain seasons?
God bless, and have a great day.
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alphabet of thanks “V”
Now, this is funny. Apparently, I had the “V” all scheduled to go but forgot the content! Can you tell it’s the Holiday season? (I have to blame something, don’t I?) So here’s the “rest of the story”. I’m thankful today for the VASTNESS of our world. I have been fortunate to have visited many parts of Read more
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alphabet of thanks, “U”
I’m thankful today for UNDERSTANDING. Giving it and receiving it. I think understanding is a lost art. Let’s face it. When we give understanding, we can’t at the same time be intolerant or hateful. I think sometimes we think that if we offer understanding, we are watering down our beliefs. And I also think that we Read more
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alphabet of thanks, “T”
Today I’m thankful for “TOMORROWS“. Isn’t it great we have tomorrows to look forward to? When things are going bad, it’s great that we have a “tomorrow” that might be brighter. I can remember times in my life when I went to bed at night, grateful for the sweet relief of sleep and the small Read more
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an apology
Yesterday, my site was hacked. Someone posted a comment and managed to insert an inappropriate picture. Nothing horrible but just something that doesn’t represent me or what I write about. I have contacted WP and deleted his comment. I’ve also taken precautions for the future. Thanks for understanding. God bless. Discover more from goodthoughtsgoodlives Subscribe Read more
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an alphabet of thanks “S”
Scarves, I’m thankful for scarves. I have at least thirty of them. Many of them, I’ve knitted or crocheted myself. For a number of years, I made scarves for our local rescue mission. It only takes me a couple of hours (bulky yarn and big needles) and it’s a great way to use up leftover Read more
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alphabet of thanks, “R”
Now this one might seem silly. Today I am thankful for the color RED. And why is that you ask? I don’t know. I just like the color red. I like wearing it, decorating with it, and eating it. The wearing: I love a red sweater. I mean you can pair it with anything and it Read more
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