Knowing Security During Times of Uncertainty

“. . . we who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged. We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” (Hebrews 6:18b-19a)

A sentence I recently read stopped me cold. The scene was a father listening to his upset daughter. The father asked his child, “Is what you are saying true, or is it how you are feeling?”

I pondered those words. I thought of the times I cry out to the Lord when I am in the midst of overwhelming challenges. I don’t doubt Him. I feel worn to a place where I doubt myself. How will I bear one more moment? I cry out because I feel all of my own strength is drained. I feel I am in the midst of a storm, needing comfort and peace.

I have confidence that I can share openly with the Lord. I don’t need to have fancy words or formal prayers. There is no pretense as I pour out my heart to Him. He knows I do not have it all together. He receives all the feelings: the frustrations, the disappointments, the doubts, the fears – everything. He longs for such intimacy, as do I.

Ultimately, when I seek God during such times, He leads me back to what is true. He is true. His promises are true. I may feel forsaken, but He will never forsake me. (Deuteronomy 31:6) I may feel that my life has no purpose but He has a plan meant to prosper me with hope.(Jeremiah 29:11) I may feel weak and worn but He has promised to be my strength. (Philippians 4:13) I may feel fear but He has promised that He is my stronghold, a light in any darkness. (Psalm 27:1-2)

Feelings are a gift from God. When they overwhelm me, taking my focus off of Him, they need to be trumped by the truth. I need to adjust my concentration back to Him – my center and security.

Prayer: Lord, your faithfulness and unconditional love towards me fills me with awe and gratefulness. Never allow me to wander far from You and your truths. Amen.

About the Author:
Lynn Severance lives in Lynnwood, Washington. She is a retired elementary classroom teacher. Lynn writes to encourage others as God has encouraged her during 28 years of living with daily physical challenges.