“For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” James 4:13

Regardless to how we contemplate what will happen in the future, we can only live one day at a time. Actually, one breath at a time. The future is not known to us but is safe and secure in the hands of God! So, as we travel along this journey of life James reminds us to acknowledge that it is God who orchestrates all things by the divine counsel of His will. “For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” James 4:15.

Perhaps you are worrying about how things will work out for you in a particular situation; what will actually happen in the near future; will worrying about the outcome really change anything? Absolutely not…but drawing nearer to God and recognizing that He has it all planned out for our good and His glory will give us the peace, joy, and strength that we need to face whatever comes. The word of the Lord gently reminds us “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Matthew 10:30. God knows everything about us…down to every strand of hair on our heads; He lovingly watches over His beloved children.

Yes, things can and do get pretty rough sometimes…but that is where our faith in God must overshadow any doubt or discouragement that weight heavy on our hearts. He is faithful to His promises and has never failed us; God is tried and proven! “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” Numbers 23:19.

So, when times of indecision and unclarity cloud our thoughts, let us run to the foot of the cross relying on God’s faithfulness; recalling how only God has brought those things that appear undeniably impossible in our lives into reality. He is the same God, the great I AM that brought us out yesterday, will carry us through every moment of today and by His amazing grace will lead us through every tomorrow! “But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.” Psalm 86:15.

As we walk through this day, let us give thanks to God for all of His goodness and mercy. The beautiful lyrics of ‘Nearer My God to Thee’ are the perfect call to the Lord.

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

E’en though it be a cross that raiseth me,

Still all my song shall be, nearer, my God, to Thee.

                                                                -Sarah Flower