“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid”.
John 14:27
Young people are often described as being brave, adventurous, and strong, though this may not always be the case. Teenagers and young adults are faced with so many decisions about their future. In school, they’re required to learn about the uncertain current events in the world. They hear about wars, inflation, diseases, and possible recessions, all of which they can do little about. When a new year arrives, they’re faced with limitless unknowns that the new year could bring them. How are the youth of today to overcome these anxieties and fears?
Fear often comes from uncertainty about the unknown in our future. I’m reminded of Joshua standing at the Jordan River, looking over to the other side. God wanted him to lead His people into battle against the nations of Canaan. Can we imagine the thoughts and feelings of uncertainty that Joshua might have had looking over that river? God knew his thoughts and feelings as well, and that’s why He says to him in Joshua 1:5-6a, “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you. Be strong and of good courage.” God promised to be with Joshua and help him accomplish the task that he was dreading.
Some people are concerned about finding a job or being able to keep a job. We want to find steady employment or make a career for ourselves. In the media, we’re told that many people around the world are dealing with recessions, inflation, and unemployment. Job uncertainty can make us fearful. Satan rejoices when we’re concerned about our everyday needs. But we should never forget that it is God who provides for us. Jesus says in Matthew 6:30, “Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?” God is asking us to bring our worries to Him, to place Him and His work first in our lives, and to trust in His perfect provision for each day.
Some say we live in uncertain times. Satan wants to rob our hearts of the peace and love of God by sowing fear. We cannot allow him to do this. The Lord is with us, and He promises to remain with us, no matter what comes our way.
David Knelsen
Seminole, TX
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