Yes, indeed—God is my salvation.
I trust, I won’t be afraid.
God—yes God!—is my strength and song,
best of all, my salvation!
Have you checked the news lately? Don’t. It’s not good. I tease my daughter about putting her head in the sand because she never checks. I think because I’m a news junkie, I’ve ruined her. But last week, I spent a few days with my youngest grandgirlies and had a news blackout. They are 3 1/2 and 18 months and the only TV they watch is Clifford, The Big Red Dog. It was kinda nice to miss the mess and not be scared or worried.
But, fear is almost innate. Eleanor, the older of the two, has had quite a summer — moving from California to Maryland. New house, new room, new friends, new church, new grocery story, new library. But in all this newness, she has become afraid. “I’m scared,” is the latest refrain from her. And rationalizing with her, really doesn’t help much.
As I thought about it, I realized that fear often comes from a loss of control. She is a child that runs well on structure and schedule. But it has all changed. As each day passes and the new experiences are pleasant, she will begin to feel safe. trusting that her parents know what is best and are there to protect her.
Our world is upside down. The terror of the horrendous acts going on in the Middle East make me wonder what kind of a world these grandgirlies will grow up in. And the worst part is that I can do nothing about it.
Control.
On the way home, there was a terrible storm over Dallas and all the planes were delayed for hours. Of course, I had a connection in Dallas and fretted that I would miss it and spend the night in the airport. I could have gotten myself all worked up over it, but then I remembered the One who is really in control — of the weather, the connection, and my safe arrival. A sense of peace took over. Whatever happened would be His plan. Thankfully, the connection was also delayed and eventually, I walked into my house at 3 AM. (Poor Mark was my taxi driver.) Thank you, God.
No, we really have no control over any of these world events. But we know the Controller. Trust Him. He will save us and He has good things planned for us.