Just Believe – Part 2

“Everything will work out in the end. If it’s not working out, it’s not the end.”
(From Fearless by Max Lucado)

Remember this post? When I wrote that post, I was experiencing a difficult time. Each moment, I had to remind myself to believe. There are times when believing God will show up is as easy as breathing. Other times, it’s a struggle. It’s not that I ever stop believing there is a God. I just start relying on my current feelings and circumstances instead of God’s plan for my life. I wonder whether he is really driving this crazy bus or whether it’s skidding out of control.

One thing I have learned: feelings cannot always be trusted. I may not feel like believing every day. But I do it anyway. On those days, I ask God to please help me overcome my unbelief and hold on for dear life.

Right now, belief comes easily. Like breathing in and out. But unbelief still finds a way to creep in. It slides in undetected—disguised as anxiety or stress or panic.

Anxiety. Will I make the right decisions? Will I be able to fulfill what God is asking me to do?

Stress. Will I be able to meet my deadline? What if I don’t finish everything in time?

Panic. God, you are telling me to wait and trust, but the numbers in my bank account keep getting smaller and smaller. Are you sure about this?

Last week, I had the privilege of attending a Hillsong United concert. Although it was a concert, it felt more like worship. We had church in Birmingham, Alabama for three hours that night.

During the concert, I noticed two teenage boys in the section next to us. Hands raised, eyes closed—they were totally lost in a moment of pure worship. I remember those days. I remember being that carefree teenager. I didn’t care what anyone thought of me. I was totally sold out for God.

It’s a beautiful thing. Of course I would never do this, but part of me wanted to lean over and tell them something. Hold on. It’s not as easy as it all seems right now. You won’t always feel like worshiping. You won’t always feel like believing. It won’t all work out the way you think it will.

But I would also tell them…

In spite of your feelings,

When it’s difficult to see through the fog,

When you are afraid,

If your faith is being tested,

Just Believe.

God is still there. He is in control, no matter the circumstances. He is driving the bus. It just may be going a different direction than you planned. It’s okay—you can trust him with your past, your present and your future.

Freely you gave it all for us
Surrendered your life upon that cross
Great is your love
Poured out for all
This is our God.

(Hillsong – This Is Our God, By Composer/Lyricist: Reuben Morgan, Copyright 2008, EMI Christian Music Group)

(Photo and Post, Copyright Allison at Anointed With Grace, 2011)