| Thank God for sunny days when life is sweet and troubles few. But there are other days, too, when dark clouds engulf us. Those are the days that test our metal. Those of us who know the Lord lean heavily on Him for the sufficient grace He has promised. We press on, and somehow keep going.
It’s one thing to deal with current realities, but it is something altogether different to deal with the dark clouds on the horizon. As we contemplate the future with all of its uncertainties, we cannot help but be apprehensive. Fears about what might happen are what we call “worry”. Worry tends to be corrosive, eating away at our peace and joy. While we must cope with current problems, we can ill afford to worry about future problems.
Jesus saw worry as a big problem. In His Sermon on the Mount, He spoke more about worry than He did about adultery and murder. In a sense, He said, “Not to worry! Worry can’t change a thing. Trust God; he does a good job of providing for the birds. Surely he will provide for you. If you worry, you are like the pagans who have no faith.”
Making plans for the future is distinct from worrying. We are called to face realistically the inevitable problems that lie ahead as we age. Prudent planning is God-honoring.
But, to be excessively concerned, to be anxious about possible coming financial, physical, or family problems, is an indication of a lack of trust in God. To be sure, there are dark clouds on the horizon, but our faith tells us that God will be with us. As He has done so many times in the past, He will make a way for us in the days ahead. “God will make a way, when there seems to be no way.
He works in ways we cannot see; He will make a way for me.” So, when inclined to worry, trust God. Hope along with Anna Waring who reminded us in song, “Bright skies will soon be o’er me where the dark clouds have been.” |
