Uncertainty Ahead: What Anchors You?

Toward the end of 2012, I wrote a post about the uncertainties the lie the head in 2013. Those uncertainties included the global economy, instability in the Middle East, and high unemployment.  Little did I know what other uncertainties lie ahead for me—chief of which was a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer along with its attendant ensuing activities, each with its own degree of uncertainty!

Is life less uncertain today than it was 16 months ago? Perhaps for me, but not for the global economy, Middle East, or the unemployed. One thing is certain though: continued uncertainty (John 16:33). Consequently, earthlings look for concrete, material things to make them feel secure, while the believer is anchored by an immaterial, but rock-solid faith and confident expectation that God purposes to make all things good for those who love and trust Him (Rom. 8:28). "Faith is the confidence of a sure and steadfast hope which anchors our soul; faith is the certainty of things we cannot see" (Heb. 11:1; 6:19, edited).

Living with Uncertainty in Hard Times

Last week, the head of IMF explained that the global economy is being held down by uncertainty in Europe. Last month’s unrest over an unflattering video about Mohammed has made stability in Egypt and  Libya look more uncertain. Here in the U.S., high unemployment and underemployment are keeping things uncertain. 


Does 2013
look uncertain?

I am so glad that Jesus acknowledged uncertainties and hard times.  But He also said we should not be controlled by them: “Don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own uncertainties. Today's uncertainty is enough for today. That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. Don't worry about such uncertainties. These uncertainties dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will certainly give you everything you need” (Luke12:22, 30-31, ed.; Matt. 6:34).

As wealthy people it would be easy for us to try to shelter ourselves from uncertainties.  So Paul says, “Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God who richly supplies all things” (1 Tim. 6:17).  Many signs are pointing to hard times  ahead.  Will you and I be able to approach them with faith in God's certainty?