by Chris Thomas

I think if I hear that phrase one more time, I’m going to throw up. It was inspiring the first 200 times we heard it but now it’s one of those phrases that you want banished from the earth, like “Y2K”, “reach out”, or “transparency”.

So. I’ve decided that from now on when I hear that phrase, instead of getting angry, I’m going to let it remind me to think of the things that I AM certain of. Like, my health is good, my job is great, my home is safe, my family is healthy, my friends are the best, and my salvation is secure.

What’s certain in these uncertain times? No matter what is happening down here, God is still on His throne! Jesus is alive! He is risen! He’ll be back! I am glory-bound! God is in control. 

Wait. What do you mean, God is in control? If that’s the case, why is all of this happening? Because we live on earth, not in Heaven. Because Adam and Eve ate the fruit. Because He gives us free will. Because it’s a fallen world but fortunately, we’re falling right into His hands. (That’s helpful only if we let Him catch us!) I am certain that whatever I go through, He is beside me. He laughs with me and He cries with me. He is ALWAYS there for me. And you. He will use our choices, good and bad, to bring us closer to Him, and to bring Him glory. There may be pain along the way, but with God in your heart, it will always end well.

Be aware of what is happening in the world today. Don’t hide from it or agonize over it. I have memorized and lean on Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace that passes all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

I also find comfort in Romans 15:30: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

No, “this world is not my home, I’m just passing through.”

And of that, I am certain!