I fell and hit my head hard – twice in one week. I don’t recommend it, but it’s been a learning experience.
First, I tripped over the open dishwasher door, slamming my head into the cabinets. My only injury was a small cut. Days later I fell off the pantry stool, again hitting my head. With bruises but no broken bones, I went shopping. The dizziness did not start until late afternoon.
I googled “concussion.” With mild symptoms, I decided to follow the guidelines. I rested, calmly waiting to feel better.
That reaction was very different than when I have a Chronic Fatigue “crash.” Why? Probably because I had Certainty and Control. I knew what was wrong, what to do, what to expect. I knew this was just a “bump” in the road. With Chronic Fatigue, though, there is nothing definitive or predictable. Lack of Certainty and Control quickly spirals into Fear and Discouragement.
Right now, Certainty and Control are as scarce in our world as toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Governments and financial markets as well as people are spooked. There is an overabundance of fear – and discouragement.
But I notice that when I’m “in control,” I don’t need faith. I plan, proceed, and expect results. God knocks those props out from under me every so often, I think, to remind me to stay close to Him in faith. To remind me that Certainty and Control may be illusions, but are also Grace, so that we can “keep calm and carry on,” in spite of everything.
We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him and are chosen to be a part of His plan. Romans 8:27-29 New Life Version (NLV)
That verse is on my refrigerator. I know it is truth, but fear clouds the knowing. Faith, applied liberally, is the antidote. Perhaps that is why God doses me so lavishly.
So during this global crisis, after I’ve taken all the wise precautions I can, I need to read the other verse on my refrigerator …
For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for well-being and not for trouble, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 New Life Version (NLV)
… and believe it! That is, after all, what faith is.
Faith is not belief without proof, but trust without reservation.
D. Elton Trueblood