How do you handle living in a world that seems to be in a constant state of unrest? We can exist on the edge of fear and panic, or move forward with our lives, savoring each day as a gift.
Uncertainty at Home and Abroad
Last week, a man killed 18 people in a shooting spree and then escaped capture. Days later, he was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Incidents like this come with increasing frequency and cause us to experience uncertainty as part of our everyday existence. We have the choice of cloistering ourselves, or accepting our lack of control and living each day as it comes.
Beyond our borders, although not directly involved, wars and rumors of wars loom. Will our country be drawn deeper into these wars? How will unrest and potential wars affect our economy and our lives?
Nothing about life is certain. We may trick ourselves into believing we have control over our lives, but we really don’t. Wondering and postulating scenarios gives uncertainty a foothold. Instead, make wise decisions about what you watch and to whom you listen. Do what you can to make sure you are financially secure. Live with an attitude of a bright future rather than one of doom and gloom.
Cope with Fear
Fear is an insidious emotion that snakes tendrils around our hearts and minds. Fear has the ability to take over your thoughts and send you on a downward spiral of negativity, if you allow it.
Although fear often serves as a protector, fear also creates an environment that robs you of joy and peace. Employ faith to help you overcome fear and gain a balanced perspective.
Find Moments of Peace
Last weekend, we enjoyed dinner with friends at a riverside restaurant that has been in business since 1945. I remember going there as a child, and later, with our children. While in that familiar setting with friends, pleasant memories surfaced. I thought of my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and gave thanks for a rich heritage of family and faith.
In a world of unrest, find moments of peace and cherish them. Let good memories lighten your heart and encourage forward motion.
Trust the Eternal
Any amount of speculation about what lies ahead for our world is just theory, conjecture, a guess. We can assume and presume, but only the Creator of the universe knows time spans and the rise and fall of leaders and nations.
Ultimately, trusting God for the future allows us to live each day with a sense of peace, purpose, and promise.
“You will hear of wars, and you will hear rumors of wars, but you should not panic. It is inevitable, this violent breaking apart of the sinful world, but remember, the wars are not the end. The end is still unfolding (Matthew 24:6 VOICE).
©CandyArrington
Candy Arrington is a writer, blogger, speaker, and freelance editor. She often writes on tough topics with a focus on moving through, and beyond, difficult life circumstances. Candy has written hundreds of articles, stories, and devotionals published by numerous outlets including: Inspiration.org, Arisedaily.com, CBN.com, Healthgrades.com, Care.com, Focus on the Family, NextAvenue.org, CountryLiving.com, and Writer’s Digest. Candy’s books include Life on Pause: Learning to Wait Well (Bold Vision Books), When Your Aging Parent Needs Care (Harvest House), and AFTERSHOCK: Help, Hope, and Healing in the Wake of Suicide (B&H Publishing Group).
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