Millions are regularly tuning in to their televisions or connecting to other devices to find out the latest bit of information available regarding COVID-19. One unique aspect of this crisis is that, while we have grown accustomed to instant information, this has been a slowly-emerging situation requiring painstaking research and careful analysis of difficult-to-obtain information. Slowly emerging answers about the spread of the disease, the effectiveness of mitigation, and possible treatments provide increasing hope. However, we are just not comfortable with this kind of unpredictability.

Unpredictability is what causes you to jump in your seat at the movie theater or let out a scream when suddenly thrown back in your seat on a roller coaster. For these thrills, we are willing to pay because, for a brief moment, we feel out of control; but, in the back of our minds, know that we will safely walk away when it is over. We like to feel in control even when we are expecting the unexpected.

Not knowing produces fear and anxiety. Trust in God is the antidote. He knows all things, even the end from the beginning (Is. 46:10). He can do all things, even that which is impossible for man (Job 42:2; Jer. 32:17). He rules over the kingdoms of the earth (Dan. 2:21). We can trust that He will always do what is right (Gen. 18:25). But, we are not in control. Our knowledge and strength is limited. Therefore, we must humble ourselves under His mighty hand and cast all our anxieties upon Him because He cares for us (1 Pet. 5:6-7).

Things most certain often carry with them an element of uncertainty. Death is certain (Hb. 9:27). However, we cannot predict the time or circumstances of our death. But, through the sacrifice of Jesus, we can live in the shadow of death without succumbing to the slavery of its fear (Hb. 2:14-15).

The second coming of our Lord is, likewise, a certainty. Yet, there are elements of uncertainty connected to the time of His return. Jesus said that no one knows the day or the hour—not the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father (Mt. 24:36). He will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night (1 Th. 5:2). Yet, in spite of the unpredictability of Christ’s return, we can look forward to His coming with joyous anticipation.

Obedient trust provides confidence to face uncertain times knowing that God is in control and that in Christ we are prepared for life’s most important event.

–Glen Elliott–