Psalm 49:5 “Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me—”
Uncertain times. I’ve heard that phrase periodically during my short stint on the earth. With all the turmoil surrounding recent events, I would say the term quite aptly describes 2021’s arrival. Actress Patricia Heaton remarked, “If you’re a common-sense person, you probably don’t feel you have a home in this world right now. If you’re a Christian, you know you were never meant to.”
Although we don’t look for comfort in the world, how should we respond in these uncertain times? It’s tempting to withdraw into safe cocoons where we think trouble can’t reach us. We kinda’ like those words of David in Psalm 11, “Flee like a bird to your mountain. For the wicked bend their bows;” (v. 1-2). David realized, however, that dodging reality wasn’t the answer he was looking for (v.7).
God never intended for uncertain times to transform his children into escape artists. We are not of the world, but we remain in it. Are you still breathing? Then you have purpose.
On the other hand, what if we are attentive to the pain, confusion and chaos erupting all around us? We are no better off than the avoiders if we view uncertain times through the prism of the now. Psalm 49 warns us not to let temporary perceptions sway us. No matter how powerful, wealthy or successful the “wicked deceivers” appear to be, their influence will fade. Rather than doubting God with groans of where are you, we trust him to lead us through these times and beyond—right into eternity.
So the more I think about these uncertain times, the more convinced I am that God made us for them. When the foundations are shaking, when false idols are crumbling, when accusatory tongues are wagging, we should be acting like the Lord’s first responders. Throwing out life jackets to those drowning in seas of uncertainty. The Prayer of St Francis comes to mind:
Where there is hatred, let me bring love. Where there is offence, let me bring pardon.
Where there is discord, let me bring union. Where there is error, let me bring truth.
Where there is doubt, let me bring faith. Where there is despair, let me bring hope.
Where there is darkness, let me bring your light. Where there is sadness, let me bring joy….
A prayer not just for uncertain times, but for all times.
Great insights.