Fear Not: Finding Peace in God’s Control, Not Our Circumstances
Therefore we fear not, though the earth be shaken and mountains plunge into the depths of the sea. ~ Ps 46:2
Yesterday, I shared about my unemployment. Compared to my first experience with it, I notice something intriguing when I contrast my demeanor between then and now.
The first time, there was a lot of turmoil, stress, worry, peace, relief, frustration, disappointment, sadness—a rollercoaster of emotions. This time around, there’s only peace with a little angst every now and then.
I don’t say it aloud too often because most people expect me to be frantic about finding another job so the bills get paid. We call this financial security and stability.
Now, one might think the angst is related to income, but that would be incorrect. My angst comes from knowing God is calling me to something else and not being able to clearly discern what. I fully trust that God will provide no matter what happens, but the flesh is weak. Nevertheless, I am at peace. I am in no rush. I want to serve Him, and my main concern is making sure I’m staying out of the way.
I find it intriguing to see and hear so many faithful Christians state how anxious they are about the status of the world or how worried they are that things aren’t going well.
If I claim to believe in God, why the concern? The phrase “Fear not” and “Be not afraid” is used dozens of times throughout Scripture, yet the words don’t seem to sink in.
- Where are you unconsciously doubting God’s protection and provision?
- How are you claiming faith but contradicting it with your behavior or mental disposition?
- What is one thing you can do today to surrender it all to God’s will?
I’ll end with a variation of what I have been offering to God during the offertory at Mass: Lord, I come to you frustrated, anxious, disappointed, thankful, confused, and humbled. I give you all my desires, my passions, my worries, everything I have done, everything I have accomplished. I give you all of these things so you can make them better and turn them into graces that benefit your Kingdom.
I gave up trying to make things happen. God is in control. It’s my job to fear not and trust He knows what is best for me. I encourage you to do the same, because on the other side of such an act of surrendering, peace awaits—regardless of the circumstances.
In peace,
~Juan
