Let’s admit it.
Life can be overwhelming at times. As a professed overthinker, I can succumb to “analysis paralysis”. All of the things I need to do, should do, ought to do, want to do – swirl around in my mind constantly.
Often times it may be a season of life where we aren’t sure where the Lord is leading us. We can become uncertain and uneasy about what we should be doing. Worrying about the outcome of a certain situation or circumstance.
In these times, we must lean into what we know to be true about our Lord. I always come back to his sovereignty. When I focus on the fact that he is in control of all things, ordains all things, and works all things according to his purposes – it brings an instant calm to my heart. Why? Because it then leads me to remember that he is also perfect, gracious, merciful, and kind. I am reminded that he sustains me in all things. He never leaves me nor forsakes me, and in everything, he is sanctifying me for his glory and for my good. Those two things can never be separated.
I get ahead of myself worrying about the outcomes of things when I should be focused on being obedient. The obedience is mine, and the results are his. More often than not in those times of overwhelm and worry, I am losing sight of the One who knows the beginning from the end. The One who is infinitely all-knowing and all-powerful.
And it is in these times of remembrance and refocusing my heart that these words come to my mind:
Do the next thing.
Just do the next thing.
That next thing may be big or small. It may seem menial at times. Maybe for now I know that my dishes need to be done. Then I just do the next thing. Focusing my heart and mind on what is right in front of me that I need to do reminds me that all other things outside of that are ultimately in HIS control and power. And I can trust him.
And that is where our peace is found, dear sisters.
Our peace of mind and heart is that we don’t need to have all the answers. Because we belong to the One who already does – and he is perfect, holy, and good beyond all measure.
So, if you are like me and are in a season of uncertainty about what the Lord has called you to do…
Do the next thing and trust that he will continue to lead the way.