Fear of the future can ruin our lives and steal our joy. We need to be careful living in the “supposes” and the “what ifs.” Suppose I lose my job? What if I get a terrible disease? Suppose the economy falls? We can all make our own list. Wen you battle fears of the future it’s time to look to God as we are told. “Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord your God, He it is that doth go with you: He will not fail you, nor for sake you,” (Deuteronomy 31:6).
It is not God’s will for us to live under a cloud of fear. He has not given us a spirit of fear! This troubling fear did not come from Him. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind, (2 Timothy 1:7). While we can not control the future or what it holds, we can do certain things to help shape our future to some degree. If we eat right and exercise, we help the likelihood of having a healthier life. If we work faithfully, live within our budget and save, then it is more likely we will be prepared for the future financial burdens. If we put our faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior we know we gain eternal life and that makes our future really bright.
While it is smart to think about the future and make wise choices today, don’t let your concern turn into worry or fear. Trust in the Lord no matter what happens. He will take care of you. Even if you have failed, made wrong decisions and mistakes, He is merciful and His grace is new every morning.
Trust in Him, and He will give you peace and guidance.
The Bible, which is God’s guide for your life says, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all the ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths,” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Ask the Lord to reveal to you His desire and plans for you, and the courage to seek that path.
May He give you a wonderful sense of purpose and send the right people to encourage and influence you. Don’t lose heart! Press on. Let your life be a testimony of His love and care.
Dr. David Bouler of Global Faith Ministries, Chattanooga, Tennessee, contributed this column to the Journal Review. He can be reached by email at debouler@aol.com.
