If I should ask do you trust God, what would your response be?
I've had a lot of things on my mind for the past couple of weeks. I find that these things occupy my mind 95% of the time to the point where fear and worry seep in. Since the beginning of this week, I've been thinking about God's will. Amid my worries, God reminded me that whatever happens, once it's in his will, there's absolutely no need for me to worry.
Life is filled with many obstacles that sometimes seem hard to overcome. Within these trying times, facing an impending recession, a rise in prices, wars and crimes becoming more rampant, it is easy for us to worry. We sometimes forget that God is in control.
Why Worry?
Worry is something that comes naturally to us. We worry if we can't find a way to control our situation or foresee a favourable outcome. Sometimes while worrying, I pause, and I ask myself what I am accomplishing by worrying.
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear." (Matthew chapter 6, verse 25). The scripture tells us that if God provides for the trees and the birds, how much more would he provide for us who are made in his image.
Can any one of you, by worrying add a single hour to your life? (Matthew chapter 6, verse 27). This verse reminds us that we can't accomplish anything by worrying. It only results in us doubting the power of God. Doubts suggest a lack of faith. The scripture states, "Without faith, it is impossible to please God" (Hebrews chapter 11, verse 6).
Whenever I'm worried, my husband tells me I'm currently in the driver's seat, which should not be the case. We worry when we're dependent on our strength. However, when situations arise, be reminded that God already knows the ending from before it began. You are his child, and he will protect you.
Trusting God
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs chapter 3, verses 5-6). We can easily say we trust someone, but only our actions can support that claim. Trust is shown through our actions.
A part of showing that we trust God is letting go and giving Him complete control. It is recognizing that we can't do it all alone and that we need the Lord's help. It involves entirely depending on God. It's changing our reaction when something bad happens, from feeling hopeless to being hopeful in Christ.
Be Patient
Another part of trusting God is being patient. The scripture states, "But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint" (Isaiah chapter 40 verse 31).
We will not receive everything we pray for immediately. They're times when God wants us to be patient; other times, it isn't the right time. When we trust in God, we'll recognize that he wants what's best for us, and we will receive what we ask for according to his will.
That which we can accomplish through prayer cannot be accomplished by worrying. Do not be dismayed; God is always with you. He has equipped you with everything you need to face all obstacles. Regardless of your difficulties, he always has an exit or maintenance strategy. Always remember who you are and to whom you belong. Allow God to direct your steps and trust where he leads you.
What is it that you're worried about? What is it that you're struggling with? Letting go and surrendering all to Christ is one of the hardest things for us to do as humans, but the scripture reminds us to "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for us" (1 Peter chapter 5, verse 7).
Latanya Fraser Cato is an elementary school teacher who enjoys reading and writing poetry. She is currently a Sunday school teacher at her church in Japan and has served on various youth-related ministries both in church and school in her home country Jamaica. She has a passion for counseling and helping others. She has published a book of poems entitled Soul’s Inspiration which she hopes will assist individuals facing various challenges..