It’s amazing how quickly life can change. As 2009 comes to an end, most of us will look back and remember everything that has taken place since the year began. Situations and circumstances that concerned us last January may be a distant memory today; while blessings, challenges, and opportunities that we didn’t think possible six months ago have appeared suddenly to surprise and motivate us.
Life is full of change. But if we focus on how different things can be from one day to the next, we may feel insecure and discouraged about the future. So as you think about all that happened this past year, I encourage you not to dwell on the ups and downs, the mountains and valleys, or the triumphs and troubles. Instead, consider how God has been absolutely faithful through it all
(Lam. 3:22-24).
The Lord’s unchanging nature is one of His most comforting attributes because it applies directly to whatever we face today. He is our stability and security. Every other source will eventually fall short and disappoint us. We can and should base our confidence fully on Him because He never fails to accomplish His purposes
(Josh. 21:45; Josh. 23:14).
Hebrews 13:8 tells us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Our Savior remains consistent and steadfast regardless of how uncertain our lives may appear. Time has no effect on Him, and our circumstances never surprise or confuse Him. Our heavenly Father is in control of everything that has happened, that is happening, and that ever will happen here on earth.
So if you’re facing a challenging situation and wondering how to get through it, I encourage you to change your focus and actively place your trust in the Lord (Prov. 3:5; Isa. 26:4). This is the sure way to enjoy His unshakable peace. Reflect on how faithful He has been to you and to those who have served Him throughout history. This makes it possible for you to obey God with assurance and leave all the consequences to Him.
Paul writes, “Whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). Through God’s Word we see the evidence thatHe has consistently shown the power and wisdom to work everything out for our good—regardless of our circumstances. You can have confidence that just as the Lord led Abraham, Moses, David, and Paul to victory, He also will direct you.
No matter what era, culture, region, political climate, or economic situation we find ourselves, His character and Word never change. Therefore, if we would like to have unshakable confidence during times of change and uncertainty, we must embrace God’s eternal principles. This not only leads to a deeper relationship with the Father, but also increases your ability to weather the storms of life.
Jesus said, “Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and slammed against that house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded on the rock” (Matt. 7:24-25).
The Savior will lead believers step by step through whatever comes into our lives—both the blessings and the challenges—just as He always has in the past. And when we submit to Him, obeying HisWord and focusing on His faithfulness, we have an immovable, secure foundation regardless of what we face.
Of course, this also means it is essential that we learn to listen for His voice. So often, our prayers to the Lord are filled with requests. We do all the talking instead of listening for His perspective of our circumstances. It’s no wonder so many people become discouraged and fearful when trouble strikes and the road ahead is uncertain. They haven’t received His direction. So naturally, they have no idea about what to do. Before you can ever walk in obedience to the Father you must pursue an intimate relationship with Him and hear all He has to say.
God knows how to lead you in a way that is absolutely perfect. When your eyes are focused on Him and you are walking in the center of His will, you won’t be distracted by anything that could get you off track or prevent you from enjoying His blessings. This is why Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
If you want to live a godly, victorious Christian life, it is absolutely necessary for you to maintain your confidence in the Lord’s absolute faithfulness. Keep your hope set solely on Him. Because when you reflect on His trustworthy character, God will remind you of all the times He led you triumphantly through trials and provided you with the courage to go on. He will also bless you by revealing His awesome vision for your life and by helping you succeed in the good works He planned for you to accomplish (Rom. 8:29; Eph. 2:10).
So as you recall the events of 2009, consider how our awesome, eternal Father God brought you through it all. Instead of focusing on any problems you may have encountered—relying on your own strength and understanding to confront and overcome them—remember that He has never forsaken you and never will (Deut 31:8). Then praise God that your best days with Him are still ahead.
