When You Are Facing the Unknown
It was a typical day of spring break. We were sitting there on the beach in our short beach chairs while just staring off into the blue ocean water. Listening as the waves crashed on the beach, over time, those crashes on the shore became a little more violent, but not paying much attention. Just focusing on the ocean waves as they ebbed and flowed onto the shore. Till I turned to my left, where my son was sitting, that I saw the black storm clouds approaching. The beautiful blue sky day had turned in an instant to dark, rain-filled clouds and thunder off in the distance.
Have you ever been on the beach when a storm cloud suddenly approaches, but then you smoothly sail in a lightweight vessel to your destination? Passing larger boats causes waves that threaten to overturn the kayak. I’m grateful to be in a kayak instead of on a paddleboard during those times. A speedboat can shatter the peaceful experience of kayaking on the lake, causing waves that threaten to capsize your kayak.
Facing the Unknown with Jesus
Life can feel that way, too. Life is going well until a challenge appears, almost derailing you. Similar to my recent experiences, facing multiple challenges at once can make me feel overwhelmed, like I’m about to be engulfed by the next wave.
I am reminded of Jesus walking on water to meet the disciples during moments like these. The storm and the frightened disciples in the boat were both calmed by Jesus. Peter lost his focus on Jesus while walking on water, resulting in him falling. It feels like life can easily pull you away from focusing on Christ.
My verse for this year is Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit” as my verse and focusing on the word trust. I was honestly scared to trust, knowing that doing so could cause significant upheaval in my life. My world is in upheaval, and we’re only halfway through the year.
5 Scriptures for When You Are Facing the Unknown
My debut book‘s success, including winning an award, has brought me immense joy. In addition to parenting, health, and relationship difficulties. I’m constantly facing new challenges before I’ve had a chance to deal with the last one. I have a choice each time something starts to make me feel like I’m capsizing. My focus can be on the wave or on our Creator. I’m learning that trust doesn’t come without trials or hardships. To build trust, one must overcome temptation and overwhelming feelings. You build trust by facing waves, hardships, and challenges.
I rely on five scriptures when life is turned upside down.
1.) Joshua 1:9
“‘This is my command–be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.’”
Joshua 1:9 NLT
No matter what you are facing, God is right there with you. We are reminded by Joshua’s story to be strong and brave; through the Lord, we can achieve anything. He’s with us no matter what.
Understanding God’s word and its truths makes finding strength and courage simpler.
2.) Psalm 23:4
“Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.”
Psalm 23:4 NLT
Psalm 23 comforts me, especially the fourth verse. This Psalm’s imagery is so calming; picturing the Lord letting me rest in a green field near a peaceful stream is so soothing. Visualizing the psalm calms and centers me, bringing my focus to the One guiding me. Despite challenging circumstances, He doesn’t abandon us.
3.) Psalm 91:1-4
“Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him. For he will rescue you from every trap and protect you from deadly disease. He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.”
Psalm 91:1-4 NLT
Psalm 91 is my 911. This chapter is my comfort and guide when life gets challenging. The initial four verses provide protection, rest, sustenance, and a reminder of God’s unwavering faithfulness. Instead of abandoning us in storms, God shelters us, covering us with his divine protection.
4.) Isaiah 41:10
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Isaiah 41:10 NLT
The Lord’s help and strength always sustain me, regardless of the challenges or failures I face. The absence of control during chaos often leads to increased anxiety and fear. Yet, God’s presence empowers us to continue, upholding us when we falter.
5.) John 14:27
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give us a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.”
John 14:27 NLT
Jesus gives us the gift of peace. It’s a matter of both our hearts and minds. He encourages us not to fear temporary circumstances. We should rely on the peace He gives, according to Him. He wishes for us to place our trust in Him without reservation.
Comfort in the Storm
Surrendering control is difficult; I continually return it to God, seeking forgiveness. With this health challenge, I’ve chosen a new path. Instead of the usual online symptom searches, I’m concentrating on prayer and Bible study, focusing on God rather than my anxieties.
In this solitary kayak, facing a raging storm, I find comfort and strength in God’s presence, believing in His protection and the peace He offers. Rather than finding comfort in the world, I’m holding onto Him. Friend, I hope you’ll take some time today to let go of what’s weighing you down. Cast your burdens upon the Lord at the foot of the cross and fully trust in His care.
Lord, I thank You for Your protection. Thank you for never leaving me in the middle of the storm alone. Let me release my burdens and have complete faith in your control. Thank you, Lord. In Jesus ‘ name, Amen.
Devotions for Chronic Illness
Hope in the Healing
In this 40-day devotional, Brianna shares details from her personal struggle with chronic illness, offering encouragement and hope to those walking similar paths. If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, this book is for you.
