When You Can’t Fix It

I am, by nature, a fixer, a problem-solver. I don’t like to feel out of control. So, needless to say, this past year of living through a worldwide pandemic, then having my mother suffer a life-altering stroke, has challenged me in more ways than I could have possibly imagined.

I have felt overwhelmed and anxious, like a small boat on a stormy sea, calling out to the Lord to save me through many sleepless nights. But through it all, God continues to remind me that when I can’t fix it, he can. He is still in control and I can trust in him.

Psalm 37 has always been a favorite of mine and as I read it again, the words popped out at me. Fret not. Trust. Delight. Commit. Be still. 

As I reflected on those words, I was reminded of the things that I have had to practise these past months.

First, fret not. Corral those anxious thoughts and trust God. Bring to mind the things that you know are true — he is all-powerful, all-knowing, and totally trustworthy. Thank him for his attributes and the promises that he has given us in his Word.

Next, delight in him. Look for his handprint in your life. Find things daily that you can be thankful for, even in the midst of the challenges you face. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude as you commit the situation to him.

And then be still — rest in his love. Resolve to put your hope in him and him alone. Remind yourself often that God hasn’t changed and you can trust him with all that you are facing.

How are you doing with the stresses that you currently face? Are you, too, struggling with things outside of your control? Have you battled with not being able to fix it? Remember that God is still in control and has not changed, so you can trust him for every aspect of your life. 

Dear Lord Jesus, Thank you that when I cannot fix the situation or change the circumstances I find myself in, I can depend on you and be still before you. Thank you that you are always trustworthy, always here to carry me through the challenges I face. Help me to trust in you, to delight myself in you, and to commit all of it to you. Amen.

Throughout this Day: Have you been feeling overwhelmed with all that you are facing in your daily life? Take some time today to read through Psalm 37 and practice these commandments… Fret not, trust, delight, commit, and be still.