Perspective in Times of Uncertainty

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, Set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
                                                                                                                             Colossians 3:1-2

            In times of great uncertainty within our world, our nation, and in our personal life’s history, so many are searching for hope and relief from potential health, financial, and unknown crisis in their own journey. The Apostle Paul addressed these very circumstances in several of his writings, one such instance is found in the book of Colossians. He encouraged readers to do several essential things which would remind them of their true source of hope and refocus their perspective on ‘things’ that would set them back on a firm foundation regardless of the uncertain nature of their immediate circumstances. During this time in the history of the world, there is more anxiety, fear, and uncertainty than we have most likely ever witnessed in our lifetimes. People are desperate for what was their sense of normalcy, peace, and what appeared to be control over their daily lives. In truth, not one of us has ever had ‘control’ over our lives, as control itself is an illusion which quickly fades in times of crisis, suffering, pain, or uncertainty.
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        Paul first reminds us that we ‘have been raised with Christ,’ meaning our true sense of hope and peace rests in the personal relationship we have with our Savior, who is Lord over all the earth. Secondly, we’re reminded that our Savior sits at the right hand of our Almighty Heavenly Father who is always in control and able to ‘work in all things for the good of those who have been called according to His purposes’ (Romans 8:28), and is able ‘to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power at work within us’ (Ephesians 3:20-21). Finally, Paul encourages us to ‘set your hearts on things above…set your minds on things above, not on earthly things,” which can so easily shift our focus from the truth and promises of God, setting us on a path to panic, anxiety, uncertainty, worry, and to the point of paralysis, fearing everyday life itself.

Connecting Faith & Life:
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            Father, this is another day You have made, and regardless of what appear to be uncertain times like we’ve not seen in our lifetime, we can still choose to focus on Your truth and promises which are unchanging. Help us through the power of Your Holy Spirit within us, to ‘set our hearts and minds on You and the things above’ which are far beyond the uncertainties and chaotic distractions of this world. Your truth is our firm foundation which allows us to stand firm and hold fast to the True Hope and Peace that is only found in Jesus our Savior, and through the presence of Your Holy Spirit within us. Father, thank You for your faithfulness and for Your presence with us, along with the unchanging truth You’ve given to us in Your Word. In Jesus’ name, Amen.