What Are Life’s True Certainties? (Part 1)

If today’s economic climate hasn’t taught us anything else, it has shown us that the things that were once considered certain are much less reliable. Pension and retirements plans, job security, and corporate loyalties were solid, reliable values 15 or 20 years ago—but in the current economic crisis, the rule of the day is the survival of the fittest. It seems that there are no more certainties. It seems as though there are no answers, only questions.

In the midst of an uncertain world, we may long for certainties of job, income, professional growth, and work relationships—but those things are just symptoms. The true certainties that our hearts long for, in fact, run much deeper. So, in an uncertain world, what can we know to be certain?

LIFE IS TROUBLED
In the most ancient book in the Bible, a man named Job learned first-hand the pain of loss. He lost his children, his possessions, and even his friends. Such magnitude of loss is devastating, but Job did not see it as surprising.

His testimony shares the stark reality of living in a fallen world. Job said, “Man who is born of woman Is of few days and full of trouble.” (Job 14:1). It is not necessarily true that I am being singled out or facing something out of the ordinary. Difficulty is to be expected. Life is troubled.

WE ARE NOT ALONE
If I feel that I am isolated in my circumstances, I have lost sight of the most critical certainty of all—God is still there, even when the bottom has dropped out of my world.

In Hebrews 13:5-6 we read, “Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”

In a day where life is overwhelming, there is nothing more important than knowing that you don’t face those burdens alone. God is there.

I CAN HAVE RESOURCES BEYOND MYSELF
In Matthew 6:33, Jesus spoke to people who were fearful. They were also uncertain about how they would live, and how their needs would be met. Jesus wanted them to look higher. He said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matt.6:33)

It may be that the pressures we feel are a result of pursuing the wrong goals. Right relationship with God is significant because of who He is, and because that relationship is the one thing in life that lasts forever. In Him, we have an eternal supply that this world cannot destroy.

We’ll see more on Wednesday and Friday.

2 Responses to “What Are Life’s True Certainties? (Part 1)”

1. shaf1of4 says:

   February 24, 2009 at 4:59 pm

   At one time in my life even as a Christian I would be very fearful in these economic times. I know that God cares for me. The birds of the air and the flowers of the field He takes care of them. I am His child and He cares even more for me.
2. Bill Crowder says:

   February 25, 2009 at 6:35 am

   There is great comfort in that, isn’t there? And, as we trust His grace, we can have great confidence as well. Thanks for your comment.