“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).

A young atheist, when interviewed, was asked what made her turn away from God. Though she was raised in a Christian home and attended church every Sunday, something changed when her mother died of breast cancer. She felt her prayers had fallen on deaf ears. Many proclaimed atheists have similar stories—life events created questions, then resentments toward God. In their pain, they turn from belief in “the myth” (God) and lean on “self” and “science.”

While Joshua led the (disobedient) Israelites, he wondered how they would ever conquer and make the Promised Land their home. God didn’t give Joshua immediate answers, but told him, “Everywhere you set foot, you will be on the land I have given you…I will be with you. I will not leave or forsake you…Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:3-6). No matter where we are, God is with us to give us the determination and grit to be overcomers.

We won’t have answers to all our questions in this life, but we can trust the One who does! When we don’t understand why painful things happen—like losing people we love, or getting turned down for a job opportunity, He does. Though things may be confusing or look grim, we will understand everything completely when we meet Jesus. “Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely” (1 Corinthians 13:12).

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: We can trust in the sufficiency of God’s grace and not let circumstances rock our faith. Read these scriptures and pray with us:

“The Lord is my Helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6).

“For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).

“[Moses] kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the One Who is invisible” (Hebrews 11:27).

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, thank you for always being with us! Help us to be overcomers with the strength and determination You give to press through every circumstance. Help us stay close to You as You guide us down the right paths, especially in the face of uncertainty! In Your name, we pray, Amen!

Final Thought: Do not lose heart! “I command you: be strong and steadfast! Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord, is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).