Out of Control .........

 

The recent apocalyptic events in Southern California have shaken many of us. Whether you’ve experienced it personally, know a family member, or have a dear friend impacted, the effects ripple through our lives. It’s a sobering reminder that there are events we cannot control. Yet, the temptation to fret and worry can easily consume us, even when there is nothing we can do to change the outcome. Watching the endless news reports often stirs up a whirlwind of emotions—our stomachs churn, our hearts race, and our minds refuse to stop replaying the events. These are all natural reactions because God created us with an ability to sense and respond to trouble in our world.

This awareness is not necessarily a bad thing. God designed us to care for others in their struggles and to recognize when danger is present. It can also be an invitation to turn to Him as our refuge in times of trouble. However, when we allow anxiety to overtake us, it often shifts from being helpful to harmful. Anxiety can act like a warning light on the dashboard of a train—blinking red to alert us that there’s danger nearby, whether in our external world or within our hearts. But when we ignore the warning signs, that light can escalate into a blaring horn. Suddenly, our hearts race faster, our emotions spiral, and our physical bodies respond with unpleasant symptoms that signal we are heading toward a crash.

Anxiety, like all emotions, has the potential to take control if we let it. It can grow out of proportion, fed by either real trouble or imagined scenarios we’ve created in our minds. In these moments, it can feel like the train of our lives is careening downhill with no brakes, gaining speed as we lose control. How we respond to these situations is deeply revealing—it shows us what we have placed at the center of our hearts. Is it fear? Worry? Or is it trust in God?

Whatever we organize our lives around—our worries, desires, or fears—often becomes the fuel driving the train. If we’re not careful, we can forget who the true conductor is. The good news is that God is always in control, even when our lives feel chaotic. Psalm 94:19 speaks to this truth: “When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul.” Even when our inner thoughts are racing and out of control, God’s comfort is available to bring us peace.

We must remind ourselves that God is not only the Creator of the universe but also the One who holds our lives in His hands. He knows every obstacle ahead, every twist and turn in the journey. And here’s the key: God has no intention of hopping off the train. He is with us through every dark tunnel, every broken rail, and even through the fires that seem impossible to endure. His promise is to strengthen, comfort, and guide us through it all. But we must choose to surrender control to Him instead of relying on our own limited understanding.

When we face life’s inevitable challenges, we must rely on God’s Word as our operational guide. Here are some truths to hold onto:

1. Bring your troubles to God: Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When anxiety begins to take hold, don’t try to bear it alone. Take your concerns to God in prayer. Be honest with Him about your struggles and thank Him for His faithfulness. When you do, His peace will guard your heart and mind, even in the middle of chaos.
2. Focus on what is true: When our minds are consumed with worry, we need to redirect our thoughts to God’s truth. Philippians 4:8 teaches us, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” God calls us to park our minds on the things that reflect His goodness and character, rather than allowing fear or negativity to take the lead.
3. Handle the problem God’s way: Philippians 4:9 says, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” God has provided us with wisdom and examples through His Word. When we follow His principles and trust in His ways, we’ll experience His peace, even in the midst of life’s storms.
4. Trust God and His timing: Finally, Philippians 4:13 reminds us, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t match our expectations. Trusting in His strength allows us to face even the most difficult circumstances with courage and hope.

Life will undoubtedly bring moments of trouble. There will be times when the train must pass through fallen trees, dark tunnels, and fiery trials. But we can rest in the promise that God is always with us. He sees the rail ahead and has already planned a way through. Rather than letting fear take control of the train, let’s place our faith in the One who has never failed us. When we trust Him to guide us, we’ll discover His peace, comfort, and strength—no matter what lies ahead.