Don’t Fret: The Lord is in Control

“For we know that if our temporary, earthly dwelling is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal dwelling in the heavens, not made with hands.” (2 Corinthians 5:1)

Believers in Christ know that we are not merely flesh, but spirit as well. When we pass, there is a greater life, eternal with our Savior. So we must not mourn or be too fearful of what inevitably happens to our bodies. We should look to the heavens above for our union with Him.

Of course, this is difficult in practice. Most of us naturally fear our deaths. Death is the earthly consequence of sin (Romans 6:23). All must endure it, even believers. But how is it that we overcome these reservations?

Death is frightening. It’s a subject we tend to dance around, even in fiction, because we’d rather not discuss it. But God has not left that as a choice for me or you. Barring those alive in body at the second coming, all who believe will die at an appointed time.

God sets the areas, the times, and the boundaries of where and when we will live (Acts 17:26). Our Sovereign Lord is in control and He knows best where we will work and believe on Him. Who are we, then, to question the wages of sin? Who are we, then, to doubt His foresight?

I’ve certainly thought about my death a few times. Before He saved me, I’d even wished for it in my darkest moments. But now I am a new person with a renewed purpose to serve and honor Him. Death should not override my duty to Christ.

Faith is a great motivator. The best, I’d say. I’d be lying if I said I don’t still fear death. I do. How will it happen? I don’t know and that’s often scary itself. But faith in Jesus has quieted that fear. It no longer rings so loudly in my ear.

Yesterday, a car nearly spun into my mother and I. They’d tried to pass someone in front of them and made a potentially fatal mistake. We could’ve been injured or worse. But, strangely, I wasn’t all that scared. I should’ve been, but I wasn’t. I thank God for our safety and the knowledge that it wasn’t yet my time.

Incidents like that remind me not to worry. Death is scary, but it has power over only my earthly body. I have no control over the events that occurred. Death is not the end and I couldn’t stop it if I tried. God is ever watchful and He already knows where and when it will be. That gives me comfort.

Paul reminds the church in Corinth that our bodies are but shells. Persecution and all manner of violence will come upon us, but we have a greater goal in mind. Death is certain, but so is eternal life with Christ Jesus to all who would believe on Him (John 3:16).

So don’t fret over death or disease. Don’t be anxious about persecution and threats. Be faithful and be mindful of the Lord, knowing that your reward will be great in heaven.

Thanks and praise be to Him. And peace be to you who read the Word and believe.

Have a great weekend and a Happy New Year!