Anticipating the Future.

We are waiting and searching for a new ministry position. Like us, there is a church that is waiting and searching for their next Pastor. We both can be fearful of what is coming in the future. We ask questions like, “Will we know it when we see it?” “Will it be what we need?” or “Will it happen when we need it.” Fear is a natural response to an unknown future.

I have been sick this last week. I was feeling weak, with headaches and dizziness. Unexpected trials make the future look even bleaker and more frightening. I wish I could say that I didn’t give in to those fears. I wish I could say that I was resolute and that my trust in God didn’t wane. As the fog of sickness slowly subsided, I was struck with a truth common to my understanding that I had ignored.

My God is in control of the future.

Duh. Right?

What surprised me was the outcome of that thought. Excitement. My hope was in uncertainty until it found its footing in God. Then I started getting excited. Instead of “Will it _____?” questions, I started dreaming of the “When it ______?” questions. God was once again my guarantee that there will be something next. I don’t know what that is, but I can’t wait to see it.

Excitement motivates me to do today the things that need to be in place for the future. Instead of planning on “how I always thought it would be,” I can prepare for the new thing that God has planned. Instead of anxiety, I anticipate possibilities. God is limitless with possibilities, and he has a specific will for me to obey. In other words, He has a new job for me to do. He has a Pastor waiting for the church that is eagerly crying out to him.

I’m like being a child again waiting for Christmas. We are counting the days and waiting for the surprise and wonder when His plan is revealed. Isn’t that what it means for your life to be in the hands of an omnipotent Father? It is child-like longing and expectation.

How bout you? Are you fearful or excited anticipating the future?