Trusting God in an Uncertain World

In today’s world, fear seems to come so easily. Headlines are filled with war, economic instability, political tension, violence, natural disasters, and moral confusion. Social media feeds our anxiety with a constant stream of bad news, leaving many of us wondering, “What’s happening to the world? And where is God in all of this?”

If you’ve found yourself overwhelmed by the state of the world, you are not alone. I’ve been there, too. But here’s the truth: our peace doesn’t depend on the world being calm — it depends on God being in control. And He still is. At any moment, God could speak out of existence all the calamities happening in the world and in our culture, just as He spoke the world into existence. Yet, He has chosen not to for a greater purpose that we will likely never understand this side of eternity.

The truth is that the condition of the world doesn’t catch God off guard. Nothing slips past His notice, and nothing is beyond His power. The Bible reminds us that in every generation, chaos has existed, and yet God’s purposes have never been shaken.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way…” – Psalm 46:1-2

The earth may give way — economies may crumble, conflicts may rise, culture may drift — but we do not have to be afraid. Not because these things aren’t real, but because God is more real. More present. More powerful. And always absolutely sovereign.

So what does it look like to live a life without fear? After all, fear is natural. It’s a human response. But as children of God, we’re not called to live by fear; we’re called to live by faith.

Jesus told His disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” (John 14:1).

He didn’t promise a trouble-free life. In fact, He warned them that hardship would come. But His solution wasn’t panic — it was trust in His presence and power, the very nature of Whom it is that we believe.

And while fear focuses on what might happen, faith focuses on Who holds everything together. So, when we feed our faith instead of feasting on what-ifs, our fears will starve to death.

But how do we feed our faith and trust God in a world that seems to be falling apart?

First, we should stay rooted in Scripture. The Word of God is a steady foundation when the news is shaky. In the Bible, God repeatedly says, “Do not fear,” because those encountering fearful trials needed to be reminded of God’s presence and power. We need the same reminders today through the active, living Word. Remind yourself daily of His promises — not just the ones about blessing, but the ones about His presence in suffering, His sovereignty in storms, and His power to redeem all things. And remember always that you are His and He will never leave you nor forsake you.

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior…” Isaiah 43:1b-3

In addition to staying rooted in scripture, we should also develop a practice of praying instead of panicking. Prayer isn’t passive — it’s powerful. It’s where our burdens are exchanged for peace. When you feel anxious, talk to God about it. Let His Spirit calm your heart. His presence is always an antidote to fear.

Combining the first two strategies, we should also take our thoughts captive to Christ. When we hear bad news that seeks to incite fear, we should immediately counter that thought with the truth from scripture and take that thought to Christ to reshape it from a “what-if” fear to an “even if” faith. This is a powerful strategy that will always short-circuit spiraling thoughts if our thoughts are fully surrendered to God.

But that’s not all we should do. Because the enemy loves to bait us to fear, we should limit the noise around us. Be informed, but don’t be consumed. Protect your mind and spirit. Choose to meditate more on God’s truth than on the media’s chaos.

And finally, we should live as a light. This world needs people of peace — people who aren’t tossed by every wave. Your quiet trust in God can be a powerful witness in a fearful world.

Remember, in a world that feels like it’s spinning out of control, God has not changed. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

His plans are still good. His love is still strong. His kingdom is still unshakable. And His hand is still on your life — no matter what’s happening around you.

So take a deep breath. Look up. God is not panicking — and neither should we.

Let the world do what the world will do. But as for us, let’s hold fast to the One who calms the storms, rules over nations, and promises to be with us to the very end. Trust in Him — and don’t be afraid.

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.” – Psalm 56:3

Ardently His,

Leah

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