Navigating Uncertain Times

 

By: Donna Bucher

Embracing rhythms of rest in times of unpredictability brings clarity within the chaos.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in uncertain times is quietness of mind. Memory testifies to this fact, for of an evening, though quite still in my favorite chair, my mind busies itself with unravelling the chaos abiding there.

Culture in general places little value on quietness, rest, and trust, especially as it relates to a spiritual posture. Preferring instead strength and confidence; lauding those who strive, acquire, and conquer.

In God’s Kingdom, however, the more we pursue quietness of mind, leaning into God, the more certainty we find. 

For the effect of His righteousness will be peace, and the result of righteousness, quiet and trust forever. (Isaiah 32:17)

In times of uncertainty, we long for strength and confidence; yet we seldom pair them with quietness, rest, and trust.

In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it.

 

Isaiah 30:15

 

Isaiah 30:15 reminds us in quietness and trust we find strength, but all too often “we want none of it”. Reminding us also of the power of repentance and rest, the Lord gives us four things which draw us closer to Him, strengthening us for the journey. Mindfully practicing repentance, rest, quietness and trust we move from the discomfort of uncertainty to confident reassurance in the Lord.

Repentance

I find the need for repentance especially relevant during times of uncertainty. As you sit with uncertainty consider your need for repentance in the following areas:

Expectations. What expectations do you have of God in this situation? Confess any preconceived ideas you may harbor.

Objections. What are you resisting in this situation? Confess what most irritates you about the uncertainty.

Control. Which aspect of the situation are you attempting to control? Confess your lack of trust in God’s way and relinquish control.

Self-Reliance. How are you relying on your own wisdom and abilities in working out the situation? Confess seeking your way and surrender to God’s way.

Rest

Rest, physically, emotionally, and spiritually seems especially elusive during periods of uncertainty.

Personal Limitations. Where are you pushing the boundaries of your personal physical, emotional, or spiritual boundaries? Note your own “warning signals”.

Fear of Failure. Are you afraid of stopping for rest? Do you fear taking time for rest may look like weakness or failure?

Busyness as Validation. Do you think busyness makes you more worthy of love from God and others? Do you fill your schedule as a way of validating your worth?

Invitation to Rest. How is God inviting you into a season of rest? How might stopping for rest help you gain clarity, bringing certainty to your situation?

Quietness

Practicing quietness during uncertainty involves taking captive thoughts (2 Corinthians 10:5) and filtering them through the promises of God. But it also involves the quietness of meekness before God and others.

Thoughts. Bring fearful and troubling thoughts to the Lord. Memorize scripture appropriate for your situation or write verses on sticky notes or index cards you keep with you.

Words. Tame your tongue. Avoid venting or telling your story both to yourself and others. When asking for prayer, stick to facts not conjecture. Avoid dictating to God your timetable or ideas of resolution.

Deeds. Behave wisely; keep responsibilities and obligations. Avoid brooding, anxious activity or self-absorption.

Trust

Moving to a place of trust during uncertainty requires recognition of the warning signals indicating self-reliance or reliance on others rather than trusting God.

Anxiety. Lack of trust in God manifests in anxiety and haste because we rely on our own wisdom and ability for resolving or removing the uncertainty. Are you researching options? Making alternate plans? Attempting the mobilization of friends and family to rescue you?

Deception. Failure in trusting God feeds anxiety and haste, which then can lead to deception. We exaggerate our circumstances to others; we lie to avoid dealing with the unpleasantness or scheme as a way of protecting ourselves from unwanted consequences.

Idolatry. Uncertainty exposes heart idols. What do you fear losing or God denying in this situation? What things prevent you from trusting God in this situation?

Practicing repentance, rest, quietness, and trust helps me move through seasons of uncertainty without the anxiety of self-reliance and fear of unwanted outcomes. Creating an attitude of meekness towards God resulting in submission to His will in complete trust.

Seeking a quiet, calm posture before God overflows our hearts with peace as He provides certainty in each step of trust we take with Him.

 

Find more encouragement and FREE Resources at Serenity in Suffering!

 

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