I hear it frequently: we live in uncertain times. I get it. I know why people are so concerned and see gloom and doom around every corner. But, in actuality, these aren’t uncertain times at all. They are actually very certain in their outcome. Jesus is returning. Quite possibly sooner than later, if current events are any indicator.

I live in a state controlled by a political party that I do not particularly care for whose policies are destroying the very fabric of the local economy. More people are leaving than staying. Right now, unless there is a drastic course correction, the outlook is somewhat bleak. As a homeowner, I can get very concerned about the state of affairs where I live. To be honest, I sometimes do. Sadly, that is one of my sins. I need to cast my cares upon Jesus, for He cares for me and will take care of me. That is made very clear in the Bible in 1 Peter 5:7: Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. (ESV)

Coupled with the problems I see all around me where I live, my employer is going through some difficulties that cause me a great deal of concern when I forget to leave those troubles in the hands of God. Rick Warren (a rather well-known preacher) made the statement in a broadcast I was watching once that “worry is a sin.” I think he is absolutely right. When I worry, I am saying that God is somehow insufficient to handle whatever the problem is. What an absurd and terrible thing to say or think or feel, especially when one consider’s that the object of my lack of faith is the Creator of the universe Himself! The very fact that I am worrying indicates that I think I might somehow be able to come up with some solution or fix for the problem that God has not been able to. It is easy to see how we can offend the Holy Spirit (who lives in each and every believer in Christ) by thinking and feeling in a manner that diminishes the role of God in our lives. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. -Ephesians 4:30 (ESV)

I believe that one of the best ways to eliminate stress and receive more faith from God (that is where it comes from; we cannot manufacture it) is to be thankful in all things. I mean all things, not just the ones that are easy to be happy about. I leave you with these last verses: pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. -1 Thessalonians 5:18 (ESV)