Finding Rest in Uncertain Times

"There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men." (Matthew 28:2-4)

Why do we struggle with uncertainty so much? If there was ever a story that could teach us how to navigate uncertainty in our lives, it's the Easter story. Just think about those disciples – walking with Jesus for three and a half years, hearing Him warn them repeatedly about His death and resurrection, and yet they still weren't prepared when it happened. When things began to unravel in the Garden of Gethsemane, their world became incredibly unstable.
 
Sound familiar? Life often brings uncertainty and confusion. The very definition of uncertainty is: "A state of limited knowledge where it is impossible to exactly describe the existing state, a future outcome, or more than one possible outcome." Just think about the weather in Nebraska – some neighborhoods experience devastating hail while others barely get a drop of rain.

When uncertainty hits, we need to remember a few important truths:
 
First, uncertain times will come. There's nothing you can do to keep uncertainty out of your life. James 4:13-15 reminds us, "Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, 'If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.'"

Second, uncertain times don't last forever. God doesn't want us to live in constant volatility. Our certainty needs to be based on Jesus because He's the only One who can make all the difference in our lives. Between now and later, there are uncertain times. Maybe what you're going through doesn't make sense. You're wondering what God will do. Don't allow these uncertain times to cause you to lose your joy, purpose, and hope.
 
Are you struggling with uncertainty today? Maybe your finances aren't where you thought they'd be. Perhaps your health has taken an unexpected turn. Your marriage might be facing challenges you never anticipated.

Here's where the practice of abiding makes all the difference. I love the couches in our church foyer. I often sit in them before coming into the auditorium. That's what it means to abide in Christ – to be resting and at peace with Him at all times. When times are tough, you need to learn this spiritual discipline of abiding, resting, and leaning back on Jesus.
 
Remember that Jesus said, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

Is there something you've been struggling with recently? Have you found yourself feeling anxious, worried, overwhelmed, and fearful of what's to come? If so, my prayer is that you will intentionally take some time today to abide and rest in your Heavenly Father. He wants to support you. He wants to help you. And He wants to give you peace that surpasses all understanding. So choose to abide in Him today, and see how He works in your heart when you rest in Him.