Coulds, might bes, and what ifs

When I make plans, I try to prepare myself for every possible circumstance. There’s Plan A, then Plan B, then Plan C, and maybe more.

How many times have you made plans that you then had to change? After anticipating exciting events that get cancelled or having to pause long-term goal setting, you almost get used to having contingency plans, especially after the last couple of years. You think of what could happen, what might be, and the what ifs, and it is wise to think ahead.

In his word, God reminds us of what is true. And if we allow His Spirit, it is the truth that anchors us through the uncertainty. The truth assures us and keeps us steady in a world of coulds, might bes, and what ifs. So let’s look at today’s passage.

Our God is in the heavens.

God is not living on this finite earth like you and me. He is above, transcendent; you and I are like a vapour in the wind, like grass that withers, like flowers that fade (James 4:14, Isaiah 40:6-8). We have no control over how long we will live, though we may try to extend our days. Ultimately, our lives are dependent on the God of the heavens.

But this God is not impersonal. He is not far away. In becoming man, Jesus made it possible for us to know this God personally and intimately. This God already knows us better than we know ourselves. He knows our deepest desires and wishes, and he wants to fulfill the longings we have for comfort, prosperity, stability, and assurance with himself.

He does all that he pleases.

It pleased God to send Jesus to sacrifice his life for your sake. It pleased God to send you his Spirit that would direct you, guide you and, most importantly, sanctify you. It pleases God to give you his wonderful peace that transcends human understanding (Philippians 4:7). It pleases God to be with you every day (Matthew 28:20). It pleases him to refine you and equip you with everything good to do his will (Hebrews 13:20-21).

In talking to my trusted mentors, I’ve been learning that not everything that goes on in my mind is true. The coulds, might bes, what ifs are all sinking sand. God’s Word is the solid ground of truth that never changes. There are no contingencies in God’s plan of redemption. When everything in life changes, he never does. When nothing is certain, he is.

If you’ve surrendered your life to Jesus, these truths apply to you. I live with anxiety and I know first-hand how crippling it can be. It really helps me to talk to my therapist, my mentor and trusted friends. You, too, can talk to one of our online Christian mentors today - it’s confidential, free, and it helps.

God of the heavens, I want to give you my plans. Forgive me for trusting myself, my finances, and the things around me, more than I trust you. Nothing in my life is certain apart from you, Lord. Help me, ground me in your truth. Equip me. Be with me. I come to you in faith, surrendering all I am and have because I know you love me and your plans for me are good. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Throughout This Day: As the coulds, might bes, and what ifs of tomorrow come to mind, consider these questions: What is it about tomorrow that I’m worried about? What do I actually have the ability to control? Bring these questions and answers to the Lord and ask him to show you what you need to release and what truths you need to stand firm in.