Selah2020: Pause and Reflect

[This reflection was published in the weekly news bulletin of Horley Baptist Church, 25/July/2021]

We live in a very uncertain world and, if the past year or so has taught us anything, it’s that we never know what is around the corner! Did we ever envisage living through a pandemic? I know I didn’t – of that I am certain!

We have learned not to expect anything to necessarily go to plan, and the expression “Covid-permitting” has become part of our daily language. Is anything guaranteed anymore?!! Will things ever be like they used to be? Will we go back into lockdown, see our families this Christmas, go on that holiday? Questions, questions, questions –
UNCERTAINTY! And this in turn can lead on to fear, anxiety, panic, worry!

I stumbled across this devotional recently, which reminded me of the foundation on which I stand as a child of Jesus…

“The secret to true rest isn’t our activity – or lack of it – but our soul’s anchor. When we choose to relax and let go of all our worries, our faith anchors us to the goodness and sovereignty of God. He’s in charge, not us. The secret to rest is anchoring yourself to a foundation that never moves. Our lives change constantly, but God’s power, love, and sovereignty never change. He is the same now and forever. So today you can rest easy.” (Graig Groeschel).*

Does this mean I will no longer have uncertainties or will always know what the future holds? No, of course not. But I do know the One who holds all those uncertainties and my worries in His hands. He is with me always, He is in control, I can trust Him, He sees, He knows, He cares, He loves, He leads, He teaches, He was, He is, He will be. “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus” – as long as those words are always on my lips, my hand is in His, and my eyes look to Him, I can have certainty and peace.

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
(Psalm 20:7)

Jesus Christ, the same yesterday and today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. (Hebrews 6:19)
SO….
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28)

Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your
minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

*Faith Scribbles (Instagram).

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