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What is happening in this world?

If you browse social media for even a few minutes, this seems to be the reoccurring question. With so much unrest and uncertainty, it makes sense.

These feelings can make us feel out of control. Often times when I feel anxious about our world and the future, my thoughts can begin spiraling. My focus hones in on what could happen and what I’ve lost – and can bring me to all of the “what ifs” of being widowed. These feelings also bring worry about all of the unknowns in this life.

When I find myself in this place, I remember the Lord’s goodness and faithfulness throughout my history with Him. I remind myself of what God has done through Jesus in the small things and the big things. There is evidence all over my life. If you struggle with this too, know that God sees you. Remind yourself of the seasons He has pulled you through and fulfilled His promises.

During church one Sunday, I heard a song that really spoke to me. It reminded me of God’s grace and goodness, took me down memory lane, and encouraged me to count my blessings.

“I see the evidence of your goodness all over my life. I see your promises in fulfillment all over my life. All throughout my history, your faithfulness has walked beside me.” – Josh Baldwin

It was true. I immediately thought of the situations as a child and into young adulthood when He was there and helped me overcome challenges, losses, and setbacks … and in the front of my mind, my most horrific storm–losing my husband Michael to suicide. Those days, weeks, and months after, I thought my life was over and was sure I wouldn’t survive. But Jesus brought hope, redemption, restoration, strength, and purpose–evidence of His goodness and faithfulness. He can transform the darkest moments of the soul into joy and light. I know because He did this for me. He wants to do this for you, too.

Remembering is a powerful act to help us see beyond our current circumstances. The evidence of God’s faithfulness provides encouragement for the future. In fact, the Bible has quite a lot to say about remembrance and the emphasis God places on remembering His goodness and faithfulness. In the Book of Joshua, Joshua remembers and asks the Israelites to also remember God’s faithfulness by building a memorial where God had made a way for them to cross the Jordan River. Joshua didn’t lose sight of God’s faithfulness. Our circumstances and feelings may change, but God’s character never changes.

“I the LORD do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.”
Malachi 3:6 (NIV)

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
Hebrews 13:8 (NIV)

If God has been faithful in the past, He will be faithful in the future. Sisters, when we face struggles or unknowns, we can rest in the Lord’s faithfulness. The God who is big enough to part the Jordan and defeat the city of Jericho is powerful enough to help us through. We may not know what tomorrow brings but trust that God is faithfully working to prepare you for your future.

Lord, thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness. Help us to remember the seasons that You brought us out of the darkness. If You have done it before, we know You’ll do it again. We know that today is part of Your plan. Remind us to focus less on our circumstances and more on YOU. Amen.