Navigate Troubled Waters (And Overcome Fear)Sample

A River

God is all about redemption: the idea of taking something that is broken and making it perfect again. In Genesis, we read how he formed a river that ran through the garden. This river watered all the plants and nourished all living things within his newly created paradise.

The fall tarnished the garden and, with it, the river. Even the earth has taken on the curse humans have brought through their sinful nature. And we are living in a world where sinful nature brings about division, war, and chaos.

Amid the fear and worry caused by living in this world, Psalm 46 reminds us that God has not lost control. So often, we spend our energy strategizing how to regain power, make the world right, and provide structure that makes us feel safe. When our best efforts fail, it can lead to panic and confusion.

But God is proclaiming in Psalm 46 that he has a plan, and although we may feel like things are out of control, we can spiritually find internal rest in the truth that nothing is pointless or out of control. God again tells us that we need to stop and emotionally, mentally, and spiritually stop and “be still” (Psalm 46:10a). He boldly states that we don’t need to be afraid, even though everything around us gets destroyed.

He uses the river as his metaphor. He started with a river in the garden. It nourished everything in it, including the tree of good and evil and the tree of life. Humans ate from the tree of good and evil because they wanted to take control. With it, the original river and garden were polluted.

Instead of giving up on us, God determined to rescue us from this curse. He didn’t stop there—he chose to provide us with a new paradise and rebuild a perfect river that flows directly from his throne.

The tree of life is waiting for us. It wasn’t destroyed the day humans chose destruction, but it stands replanted and well-watered. Someday we will all stand before it, on the banks of the crystal river, with the assurance all pain has ended. In your heart, go to that place daily!

Don’t focus on the brokenness of this world, and don’t give in to the fear that comes from getting lost in a battle to try to create heaven here. You will only find discouragement. Prepare your mind and heart today because, yes, the world is chaotic. But hold on to the idea that even in the madness of this world, God has not lost ultimate control. He sees all things and will make things right in due time.

Lord, when the world becomes loud with chaos and devastating news, may we keep our eyes focused on the spiritual truth that you have always had a plan, even before creation. Help us to put our trust in you. Help us to see that you will redeem even creation. You will take back what is yours at the proper time. Help us to keep still in our hearts until that day arrives.