Do you Trust in the Lord ?

I do not resemble the Christians you read about in books, miraculous testimonies; but I did have my own small experience of learning to trust in God to clear the path recently: My daughter was finally selected to begin her training for a new position, but that meant that she has to travel from Ontario to LAX every day from having to get up at 4am for a 2½ travel freeway time. We were down two cars - just in time, before the big commute to begin (my car and my daughter’s car on the blink with major repairs)…my spouse had to cabbie us both from Duarte to LAX for six weeks. The determination was the love for our daughter , this situation was not going to deter us from helping her get her to training on time and back home. She has been anticipating this day for one solid year.To and from two destinations; my job and our daughter’s job. A very real fear suddenly came over me...I never really had this type of fear (none that I can remember). I have always trusted in God and very comfortable with my spouse’s driving; we have driven across country for sports events and family gatherings. We even say a daily Prayer of Protection before we start our drive. Most of our commute was but freeway, but I became fearful of all surroundings; listening to the traffic reports; seeing the news; watching thrill seekers, road warriors and speed demons on the roads not to mentioned the big-rig trucks racing to make sure you can’t merge onto the freeway! I was a mess…everyday, day in and day out, when I woke up I worried; when I tried to sleep I worried; when I was in the car, I was petrified, when I was at work – I worried about their safety; when going home; I couldn’t wait to get off the freeway…and sometimes; prayed for traffic. I couldn’t tell anyone, but I didn’t want them to think I was being a baby; “How silly can you be?” “Freeways are safer than streets!!! “ I would literally press on my imaginary breaks or hold on to the hanger holders or brace the arm pad on the window!

BUT, in the midst of this “never-ending” personal torture, I prayed constantly. But I literally found myself praying IN FEAR!!! Then one evening laying in bed…fearing the next day, I “suddenly told myself: “STOP IT!” TAKE IT TO THE LORD! PEACE BE STILL!!!...GOD IS IN CONTROL! HAVE FAITH NOT FEAR! HE’S GOT ME COVERED!!!...I prayed this over and over and over again! I’m putting my trust in you Lord; I cannot do this myself! I need you to help me through this! Peace be still…

The next “remaining” week…I felt more at ease with the drive. Now my daughter has to commute by herself…Although I still pray for her coming and going; I have peace with that and to know that God is in control !!! …Proverbs 3:5-6 is very dear to my heart. 5Trust in the LORD with all your heart’ and lean not on your own understanding ;6in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Now, you may have a different understanding of this scripture…but for me, during this ordeal, this scripture sends a very strong message. It just put things into perspective.

Not trusting in the Lord because of your own fear of the unknown, worry and dreading for negative outcome, doubting every move that’s made or second-guessing yourself isn’t very good practice when you “lean” on your own understanding. We have no “spiritual” discernment; we are out of place. This is what got me in trouble in the first place; fear got the best of me. I did not even think how this would make my family react. Fear can be a very real, “evil” force if you allow it. God does not want us to be fearful of the unknown that is led by Him….and you will know, because you will be at peace when you pray on it. Know that God only wants good for you because He loves you! He wants no harm to come to those who believe and love him.

When faced with fears: our homes, our finances, health, our jobs, our security, our family, trust and rely on God to see us through? Do we pray or ask for prayer while awaiting a negative outcome? How strong is our trust? How long do we trust? Do we persevere? Do we continue to have faith in God for favorable outcome?

• Trust in the Lord with all your heart: If our trust is limited, it’s not saying very much about our faith. Trust in Him in all your are; in all you do;

• Lean not on your own understanding: Lean instead on the wisdom of God's word; daily reading of scripture; of devotionals; of testimonies. As we read daily, meditate on his word, and understand his word - we will be learning to think His thoughts after Him.

• In all your way acknowledge Him; Acknowledge Him in your by thanking him and praising him for his Glory! The Sovereign God! Thank Him for blessings for whatever they may be; for his mercy – his forgiveness and compassion; and his grace – not that we deserve it, but because we are his children – Acknowledge Him because He is – therefore, you are!!!

• and he will make your paths straight: He will not leave you nor forsake; He will guide you and strengthen you. He will give you wise choices; if will open door of opportunities; lead you from danger; lead you over bumps in the roads.

Trust Him and have faith: Body, mind and spirit –Walk with Him daily!!! You’ll never walk alone! (or pray for travelin’ mercy!)…

Scriptures: Psalms 3:21-25

21My son, preserve sound judgment and discernment, do not let them out of your sight; 22they will be life for you, an ornament to Grace your neck. 23Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble; 24when you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. 25Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, 26for the LORD will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being snared.