In today’s world, it can be really easy to think that the universe is not being governed. Natural disasters, wars, famine, genocides, terrorist attacks, the uprise of violence and crime etc; it is of human nature to wonder why God allows these things to happen. Whenever you catch yourself having these thoughts, it’s important to remember our understanding is not God’s understanding, and our perspective is not the Lord’s.
As highlighted in Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
This verse is reminding us that despite what we see around us, we have a God that sees what we don’t see. A God that knows what we don’t know. The Lord is aware of the limited viewpoint that we have as humans, which is likely why it’s stated in the bible over 200 times to trust in him!
It is normal to become worried, stressed, even scared about what the future holds, because we don’t have the ability to see it. The lack of control and the fear of the unknown ties so many of us in anxious knots, but even this is something God already understands about us. Which is why in 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) we are encouraged to Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.
No matter how educated, or smart we become in this world, it’s imperative to never forget that our understanding is limited. My favourite devotion says; What you know of the world you inhabit is only the tip of the iceberg. Submerged beneath the surface of the visible world are mysteries too vast for you to comprehend. There is so much the Lord is doing for you behind the scenes, which is why we must live by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).
The truth is: God has never lost control. Not for a second. Everything we don’t understand is still fully known by Him. And while He never promises a life without trouble, He does promise His presence, His guidance, and His protection through it all. Even when we cannot see the full picture, we can trust and have faith in the one who holds it.
So the next time your heart feels overwhelmed by the world around you, pause and remind yourself:
My view is limited, but God’s vision is perfect. My future is unknown to me, but it is already held securely by Him.
Choose to trust the One who sees the full story, forever and always.
SL