Trusting God in Uncertain Times
Heart Happy
Audio By Carbonatix
Finding Peace When the World Feels Shaky
If we’re honest, life these days feels a bit like being on a rollercoaster you didn’t choose to ride. You’re holding on for dear life while wondering if the operator is asleep at the switch. (Spoiler alert: He’s not—more on that later.) Whether it’s the economy, the news, your health, or just trying to keep the pantry stocked with snacks your kids won’t devour in one sitting, uncertainty seems to be the theme of the season.
Here’s the thing: uncertainty might shake our schedules, but it doesn’t have to shake our faith. God hasn’t abandoned the controls. He’s not pacing in heaven saying, “Wow, I didn’t see this coming.” No, He’s got this—and He’s got us. Let’s talk about how we can trust Him even when the world feels wobbly.
When Life Feels Uncertain, God Remains Steady
The Bible is packed with promises that speak directly to uncertain times. I mean, God knew we’d need some reassurance when life felt like it was unraveling. Let these truths sink into your heart:
- “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Write this verse down and place it somewhere visible to remind yourself that God’s plans are always good. - “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” (Matthew 6:34)
Each night, take five minutes to thank God for today and release your worries about tomorrow in prayer. - “Be still, and know that I am God.” (Psalm 46:10)
Set aside a moment of quiet each day to focus on God’s presence and let go of distractions.
The world may feel shaky, but our God is unshakable. He is faithful, sovereign, and 100% in control.
3 Practical Ways to Trust God More Deeply
Trusting God sounds great in theory, but let’s get practical. Here are three ways you can build trust in God, even when life feels unpredictable:
1. Start Your Day with Surrender
Picture this: Your alarm goes off, and instead of diving straight into the chaos (hello, emails and breakfast battles), you pause. You take a deep breath and pray:
“Lord, I trust You with today. I trust You with my to-do list, my worries, and even that thing I’m scared to say out loud. Help me walk in Your peace.”
Set a reminder on your phone to pray first thing in the morning, even before checking your messages.
2. Stay Anchored in God’s Word
When life feels out of control, Scripture is your lifeline. Make it a habit to read, reflect, and even write down verses that remind you of God’s faithfulness. Stick them on your fridge, your bathroom mirror, or anywhere you’ll see them often.
Need a plan? Try focusing on verses about God’s peace, provision, and promises. A few favorites:
- “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1)
- “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Choose one verse to memorize this week and repeat it whenever you feel anxious.
3. Lean on Community
You don’t have to walk this road alone. Find a tribe of women who will pray for you, encourage you, and remind you of God’s truth when you forget. Whether it’s a Bible study, a prayer partner, or your favorite Christian podcast, connection matters.
Reach out to a friend or join a group this week where you can share your heart and grow in faith together.
Reframing the Struggle: God’s Bigger Picture
Now, let’s flip the script. What if the uncertainty you’re facing isn’t just a problem to solve but an opportunity to grow? What if God is using this season to draw you closer to Him, to deepen your faith, and to show you His faithfulness in ways you’ve never experienced before?
Journal about a time God turned a difficult situation into a blessing and reflect on how He might be working now.
Think about Joseph in the Bible. From the pit to the palace, his life was one plot twist after another. But through it all, God was working behind the scenes, weaving a story that brought hope and redemption—not just for Joseph but for an entire nation.
Keeping Your Cool When Life Doesn’t Go as Planned
Let’s be real: trusting God doesn’t mean you’ll have perfect patience every time life throws a curveball. (Spoiler: I haven’t mastered this either.) But here are a few ways to keep your cool:
- Pray First: Before you react, take it to God.
Pause for ten seconds to pray before responding to stressful situations. - Pause for Perspective: Step back and remember that God is in control, even when you feel out of control.
Take a short walk or breathe deeply to reset your mindset when frustration hits. - Speak Life: Choose words that build up, not tear down. As Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath.”
Write down one kind phrase you can use when tensions rise, like, “Let’s work through this together.”
One Hope-Filled Last Thought
Friends, life is unpredictable, but God’s character never changes. He is faithful, good, and working all things for His glory and your good—even when you can’t see it.
As Lamentations 3:22–23 says, “His mercies are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”
So when the world feels shaky, hold tight to the Rock that never moves. Lean into His promises, surround yourself with community, and rest in the truth that He is working all things for your good.
At the end of the day, write down three ways you saw God’s faithfulness, no matter how small they might seem.
Let’s trust Him together, one uncertain day at a time.
Call to Action: What verse or promise helps you trust God when life feels uncertain? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
~Tricia
Want more insight? Join us in reading Job on the Daily Bible podcast! 🎧 LISTEN & 📺 WATCH
Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
January 6 | Genesis 18–21
Faithfulness in the Unfolding of God’s Promises
In today’s journey, we witness the mingling of divine promise and human frailty, culminating in the birth of Isaac, a long-awaited fulfillment of God’s word.
Genesis 18: The Promise and the Plea
The narrative begins with an extraordinary visit to Abraham and Sarah’s tent. Three men, one of whom is recognized as God, bring a message that defies belief: Sarah, well beyond childbearing age, will bear a child. Sarah’s laughter, a mix of disbelief and fear, echoes our doubts in the face of the improbable. Yet, is anything too hard for God? Abraham’s earnest plea for Sodom reveals his compassionate heart, negotiating for the city’s salvation, albeit in vain.
Genesis 19: The Fall of Sodom and Gomorrah
The destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah is a grim reminder of the consequences of unchecked wickedness. Lot’s moral choices within the city paint a dark picture of human nature. The narrative takes a distressing turn when Lot’s daughters’ actions lead to the origins of the Moabites and Ammonites, who later become enemies of God’s people.
Genesis 20: Abraham’s Fear and God’s Sovereignty
As Abraham and Sarah move again, Abraham’s fear leads him to repeat a past mistake, claiming Sarah as his sister. King Abimelech’s near-misstep, prevented by God’s intervention, shows how divine sovereignty often waylays human decisions.
Genesis 21: The Fulfillment of God’s Promise
Finally, the promise is fulfilled with Isaac’s birth. Sarah’s joyous laughter replaces her earlier skepticism, marking a moment of divine faithfulness and human transformation.
Word of the Day: Faithfulness
Definition: Steadfast loyalty and trustworthiness in fulfilling promises and commitments.
God’s faithfulness is like a relentless pursuit, a love that never gives up. From Adam and Eve to Abraham, we see His loyalty and provision. Abraham’s story, in particular, reflects this faithfulness: God’s assurance of countless descendants and His choice of Abraham for his potential to lead his family in righteousness.
Applications
Seek God in Doubt: When doubts arise, remember that nothing is too hard for the Lord. Lean into His Word for reassurance.
Trust God’s Timing: Like Abraham and Sarah, trust that God’s promises will be fulfilled in His perfect timing, even when circumstances seem impossible.
Rely on God’s Faithfulness: Recognize that God’s plans for you are not contingent on your perfection but on His steadfast love and mercy.
January 7 | Genesis 21:8-34, 22-23, 11:32, 24
Tapestry of Faith, Trials, and Divine Provision
In today’s journey, we witness the profound interplay of human emotion, divine intervention, and God’s providence in the lives of Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Isaac, and Ishmael. These narratives showcase God’s faithfulness amidst trials and His provision at critical moments.
Genesis 21:8-34
A family at a crossroads. Sarah’s concern about Ishmael’s influence on Isaac leads to the difficult decision to send Hagar and Ishmael away. In the wilderness, Hagar reaches the brink of despair, but God intervenes, providing a well of water and renewing His promise to Ishmael.
Genesis 22
Abraham faces the ultimate test of faith when God commands him to sacrifice Isaac. His unwavering trust is evident in his assurance to Isaac: “God will provide a sheep for the burnt offering.” At the crucial moment, God provides a ram, reaffirming His faithfulness and Abraham’s trust.
Genesis 23
Sarah’s passing marks a somber chapter, but Abraham’s negotiation for a burial site reflects his ongoing faith in God’s promise of the land for his descendants.
Genesis 11:32
The mention of Terah’s death ties the narrative back to the start of Abraham’s journey, reminding us of God’s overarching plan and promises spanning generations.
Genesis 24
As Abraham grows older, the focus shifts to Isaac’s future. Abraham’s servant embarks on a mission to find a wife for Isaac, guided by God’s providence. Rebekah’s encounter at the well highlights her faith and God’s orchestration in bringing her to Isaac.
Word of the Day: Provision
Definition: The act of supplying or making available what is needed; a measure of care or preparation in advance.
From Hagar’s well to the ram on Mount Moriah, we see God’s provision in the most desperate moments. This divine care reminds us of His readiness to supply our needs, often in ways we least expect.
Living in Light of God’s Provision
- Trust in God’s Timing: Just as Abraham assured Isaac of God’s provision, we can trust God to meet our needs at the right moment.
- Recognize Divine Orchestration: From Rebekah’s encounter at the well to the ram provided for Abraham, God’s hand guides the details of our lives.
- Rest in God’s Care: Even in the wilderness of despair, as Hagar experienced, God sees and responds to our cries.
- Walk in Faithfulness: Abraham’s willingness to follow God’s command, even when it seemed incomprehensible, is a powerful example of faith in action.
God’s provision reminds us that His care is unwavering and sufficient, guiding us through every trial and triumph.
January 8 | Genesis 25, 1 Chronicles 1:28-34
The Legacy We Leave
As we delve into today’s readings, we encounter the intricate dynamics of Abraham’s family and witness God’s promises unfolding through generations. These stories reveal His faithfulness amidst human flaws and invite us to reflect on the legacy we are building.
Genesis 25: Abraham’s Expanding Lineage
After Sarah’s passing, Abraham fathered six sons with Keturah, but Isaac remained the heir of God’s covenant promise. Ishmael’s twelve descendants became chieftains, fulfilling God’s promise yet living in ongoing tension with their kin.
This lineage underscores the broad scope of God’s promise in Genesis 12:7, where Abraham’s descendants begin to emerge as nations through Sarah, Hagar, and Keturah.
Isaac and Rebekah: Mirroring Faith and Trials
Isaac’s story mirrors that of his parents: a barren wife and fervent prayer for a child. Rebekah’s pregnancy with twins is both an answer to prayer and the beginning of a new chapter of sibling rivalry, setting the stage for future nations and God’s redemptive plan.
Sibling Rivalry: A Recurring Theme
From Cain and Abel to Ishmael and Isaac, and now Jacob and Esau, sibling conflict weaves through the narrative. These stories highlight human frailty and the complexity of family dynamics, yet they also testify to God’s ability to work His purpose through our imperfections.
Word of the Day: Provision
Definition: The act of supplying or preparing what is needed in advance.
Through these narratives, God’s provision shines:
- For Hagar and Ishmael: Water in the wilderness and a promise for Ishmael’s future.
- For Isaac and Rebekah: A miraculous answer to prayer through the birth of twins.
- For Abraham: Continued blessings for his descendants and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Living a Legacy of Faith and Provision
- Recognize God’s Faithfulness: Like Isaac and Rebekah, trust that God hears and answers prayers, even in prolonged seasons of waiting.
- Shape Your Legacy: Through daily actions and intentional decisions, build a legacy that honors God and blesses future generations.
- Embrace God’s Provision: Trust that God will provide for every need, even in moments of trial or conflict.
- Reflect on Relationships: Learn from the stories of sibling rivalry, seeking peace and reconciliation in your relationships.
Let these lessons from Genesis inspire us to trust in God’s provision and build a legacy that reflects His faithfulness.
January 9 | Genesis 25:27-34, Genesis 26, Genesis 27, Genesis 28:1-5
God’s Everlasting Goodness
In today’s reading, we delve into the complex dynamics of Isaac’s household. From sibling rivalry to divine faithfulness, the stories of Esau and Jacob remind us of the intricate interplay between human frailty and God’s unshakable goodness.
Esau and Jacob: Contrasts and Consequences
The tale begins with a striking contrast between the twins. Esau, the rugged hunter, is favored by his father, Isaac. Jacob, the thoughtful homebody, is cherished by his mother, Rebekah.
Esau’s impulsive decision to trade his birthright for a bowl of stew showcases short-sightedness, while Jacob’s cunning demonstrates the pitfalls of ambition unchecked by trust in God. These choices set the stage for a lifetime of conflict and divine intervention.
Isaac’s Faith Amid Famine
Isaac’s response to famine mirrors Abraham’s journey. Like his father, Isaac claims Rebekah as his sister, revealing a pattern of fear and self-preservation. Yet, God’s faithfulness is evident in Isaac’s prosperity, even amidst tension with Abimelech over wells.
Isaac’s story is a testament to God’s provision and blessings despite human shortcomings. His journey reminds us that God’s promises remain steadfast, even when we falter.
Deception and Divine Blessing
The narrative crescendos as Jacob, with Rebekah’s guidance, deceives Isaac to secure the firstborn’s blessing. Esau’s anger forces Jacob to flee to Uncle Laban, marking a turning point in their saga.
Through these events, God’s goodness is unmistakable. His promise to Isaac—that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars—remains a beacon of hope amidst human flaws and failures.
Word of the Day: Good
Definition: Morally excellent, virtuous, or righteous; beneficial and desirable.
God’s goodness permeates these chapters, showing His faithfulness and love even in our brokenness:
- Esau and Jacob: God works through their imperfections, guiding His plan despite human mistakes.
- Isaac’s Prosperity: Blessings abound even when fear and doubt cloud Isaac’s decisions.
- Promises Fulfilled: The covenant with Abraham continues through Isaac, showcasing God’s unwavering goodness.
Reflecting God’s Goodness in Our Lives
- Embrace God’s Promises: Remember that His faithfulness remains, even when we fall short.
- Make Thoughtful Choices: Avoid Esau’s impulsiveness or Jacob’s deceit, choosing instead to trust God’s timing.
- Model God’s Goodness: Reflect His character in your relationships, offering grace and compassion.
- Recognize Patterns: Learn from Isaac’s repetition of Abraham’s mistakes and strive to break cycles of fear and mistrust.
Let us strive to reflect God’s goodness in our choices, trusting in His plans even when life feels uncertain.
January 10 | Genesis 28:6-22, Genesis 29, Genesis 30:1-24
God Remembered Rachel
Today’s reading brings us into a whirlwind of dreams, weddings, and the birth of nations, where human drama and divine intervention intertwine to shape the legacy of faith.
Esau’s Decision and Jacob’s Dream
The story begins with Esau’s decision to marry into Ishmael’s lineage, adding layers of complexity to Isaac’s family dynamics. Esau’s choices seem to defy his father’s guidance, reinforcing the tension within this storied household.
Meanwhile, Jacob, journeying to Uncle Laban, encounters God in a dream. He sees a ladder connecting heaven and earth, a powerful symbol of God’s accessibility and presence. Charles Spurgeon describes this as the “God of Bethel,” revealing that God is not distant but deeply involved in earthly matters.
Jacob’s response at Bethel is transformative. He erects a memorial pillar, names the place the “House of God,” and vows to dedicate a tenth of his blessings back to the Lord. This marks a pivotal step in Jacob’s faith journey, reflecting a growing awareness of God’s closeness and care.
Love, Deception, and the Birth of a Nation
Jacob’s story takes a romantic yet complicated turn as he falls in love with Rachel. His willingness to labor for seven years for her hand speaks to the depth of his love. Yet Laban’s deception on Jacob’s wedding night, substituting Leah for Rachel, adds a layer of irony and pain. This twist leads Jacob to work another seven years for Rachel.
Amidst this drama, the births of Jacob’s children through Leah, Rachel, and their maids establish the foundations of the twelve tribes of Israel. Leah’s story, in particular, resonates with those who feel overlooked. Despite being less favored, Leah finds recognition and love in God’s eyes through her children.
Word of the Day: Remembered
Definition: Brought to mind or given attention; noted or cared for.
God’s remembrance is a central theme in this passage:
- Hagar and Leah: Both women, often marginalized in their stories, are seen and valued by God.
- Rachel’s Prayer: “God remembered Rachel” (Genesis 30:22) underscores His perfect timing and unwavering care.
- Jacob at Bethel: Jacob’s dream reminds him—and us—that God always remembers His promises.
God’s Remembrance in Our Lives
- Trust God’s Timing: Like Rachel, know that God sees your struggles and answers in His perfect time.
- Find Value in God’s Love: Leah’s story teaches us that even when overlooked by others, we are cherished by God.
- Respond in Worship: Jacob’s memorial at Bethel inspires us to acknowledge and thank God for His presence in our lives.
- See Struggles as Opportunities: Challenges, like those faced by Jacob, Leah, and Rachel, can be the context for God’s transformative work.
This passage is a powerful reminder that God’s plans unfold perfectly, even amidst our imperfections and challenges. He remembers us, works through our lives, and weaves our stories into His greater narrative.
.January 10 | Genesis 28:6-22, Genesis 29, Genesis 30:1-24
God as Our Witness in Jacob’s Journey
The story of Jacob continues with deep family complexities, workplace challenges, and God’s providence guiding him every step of the way. As we read through Genesis 30 and 31, we witness faith, resilience, and God’s unwavering presence amidst life’s dramas.
Jacob’s Family and Work Life
Jacob’s household is a tapestry of relationships filled with emotion and complexity. Married to Leah and Rachel and fathering children with their maids Bilhah and Zilpah, Jacob’s family dynamic reflects real-life struggles with favoritism, jealousy, and competition.
Meanwhile, Jacob’s strained work relationship with his father-in-law Laban highlights the challenges of injustice. Despite Laban’s repeated attempts to cheat Jacob out of his earnings, Jacob’s faith and clever strategies lead to prosperity, sowing jealousy among Laban’s sons.
Divine Intervention and Guidance
Amidst the tension, God speaks to Jacob, directing him to return to his homeland. This pivotal moment reinforces the theme of divine guidance and care. In a dream, God reassures Jacob that He has seen Laban’s deceit and promises protection, proving that no injustice escapes His notice.
The Departure and Its Aftermath
Jacob, his wives, children, and flocks leave secretly for Canaan, but Rachel’s theft of her father’s idols creates tension. Laban’s pursuit and dramatic confrontation with Jacob could have led to chaos, but God intervenes, warning Laban in a dream not to harm Jacob. Their eventual covenant, marked by a pile of rocks as a witness, brings peace to their relationship and concludes this chapter of Jacob’s journey.
Word of the Day: Witness
Definition: Someone who sees an event or provides evidence; a testimony to truth.
The concept of “witness” plays a central role in Jacob’s story:
- God as Witness: Jacob finds solace in knowing that God sees and acknowledges his struggles with Laban.
- Witness Pile: The stones between Jacob and Laban symbolize God’s presence as a witness to their covenant.
Lessons from Jacob’s Journey
- Trust God’s Guidance: Jacob’s obedience to God’s call to return home reminds us to listen for and trust divine direction in our own lives.
- Stand Firm in Adversity: Despite being wronged, Jacob’s persistence and faith in God lead to eventual justice and peace.
- Find Comfort in God’s Presence: Knowing that God witnesses every aspect of our lives offers reassurance in times of struggle or misunderstanding.
- Seek Peace: Like Jacob and Laban’s covenant, work toward reconciliation and peace in strained relationships.
Jacob’s journey reminds us that life’s challenges often serve as the backdrop for God’s transformative work. In our moments of feeling unseen or undervalued, we can trust that God is our ultimate witness, providing strength, justice, and hope
January 12 | Genesis 32-35
The Power of Prayer
Our readings in Genesis 32-35 capture the transformative journey of Jacob as he navigates fear, reconciliation, and the challenges that ultimately shape his path and legacy.
Encounter with Angels and Fear of Esau
Jacob’s encounter with angels at the start of his journey back to his homeland is a profound reminder of God’s presence. However, when Jacob hears that Esau is approaching with 400 men, his fear overshadows this divine reassurance. This tension highlights the very human struggle of balancing faith with fear.
Jacob’s Strategy and Prayer
In his anxiety, Jacob divides his camp and sends gifts to Esau in hopes of appeasing him. But his most significant act is turning to prayer. His plea is honest and vulnerable, reminding God of His promises and seeking protection. This moment underscores the power of prayer to align our hearts with God’s will, even amidst uncertainty.
Wrestling with God – A Turning Point
Jacob’s wrestling match with a divine figure, often seen as a Christophany, becomes the pivotal moment in his spiritual journey. Through this struggle, Jacob earns the name Israel, signifying his perseverance and transformation. It’s a profound metaphor for how our struggles—spiritual, emotional, or physical—can lead to growth and deeper faith.
Brothers Reunited – The Power of Forgiveness
Jacob’s fear of Esau is met with a completely unexpected response: Esau embraces Jacob. This emotional reunion shows the strength of forgiveness and reconciliation, even after years of estrangement. It’s a powerful example of how fractured relationships can be restored.
The Incident at Shechem – Consequences of Actions
The narrative turns somber with the violation of Dinah and the subsequent actions of Simeon and Levi. Their retribution brings justice but also sows discord and consequences for Jacob’s family. This story challenges us to consider the weight of our choices and their lasting impacts.
Casting Away False Hopes
As Jacob’s family moves toward the Promised Land, they are instructed to discard their pagan idols. This act symbolizes letting go of false hopes and committing fully to God. It prompts reflection on what we might need to relinquish in our own lives to embrace God’s promises.
Word of the Day: Prayer
Definition: A solemn request for help or expression of thanks addressed to God.
Prayer is central to Jacob’s story. From his plea for protection to his wrestling with God, Jacob demonstrates the transformative power of prayer. It serves as a bridge between human vulnerability and divine strength, reminding us to turn to God in every circumstance.
Lessons from Genesis 32-35
- Rely on Prayer: Like Jacob, turn to prayer in times of fear or uncertainty. It’s a powerful way to seek God’s guidance and align with His promises.
- Pursue Reconciliation: Esau and Jacob’s reunion shows that forgiveness can heal even the deepest wounds. Seek peace and restoration in strained relationships.
- Embrace Transformation: Struggles can lead to growth. Like Jacob wrestling with God, allow challenges to refine your faith and character.
- Let Go of False Hopes: Discard anything that keeps you from fully trusting in God’s promises, just as Jacob’s family cast away idols.
Genesis 32-35 teaches us to face our fears with faith, to seek forgiveness and reconciliation, and to trust in God’s plans for our lives. As we navigate life’s challenges, may we be reminded that prayer is our greatest tool for connection and strength.
