Are You Overwhelmed By Fear? Trust God

In recent times, the world has been witnessing unsettling events. The ongoing war in Ukraine, and the potential escalation of conflict between Israel and Iran—bringing with it the involvement of global allies—threatens to turn the Middle East into a larger battleground. Add to this, natural disasters such as Hurricane Helene, which recently ravaged parts of America, leaving behind a trail of destruction and displacing many. Such occurrences naturally cause fear and anxiety, making us wonder how we can cope with such uncertain times.

Matthew 24 is a chapter I often turn to, as it reminds me of the times we are living in now. It begins with Jesus leaving the temple, and His disciples, concerned, run to Him asking about the signs of the end times. Jesus responds clearly, telling them what to expect. He says in Matthew 24:6-7, “And ye shall hear of wars and rumors of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.”

We are seeing exactly what Jesus foretold—wars, natural disasters, famines, sicknesses—all signs of the end of times. Economies are collapsing, and many are losing their livelihoods. But as Christians, how should we respond? Should we give in to fear, like those who do not understand the times we are living in?

Peter offers wisdom in 2 Peter 3:11, saying, “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives.” This is God’s call for us in these troubled times. Despite the overwhelming challenges we face, we are called to holiness and godliness, to be set apart in our faith and trust in Him.

It’s important to acknowledge that there will be times when the “hills” in our lives—whether sickness, fear, or struggles—will not be removed. There will be rivers we cannot cross, and not all of our prayers will be answered in the way we hope. Yet, even in these trials, we have a loving Father who watches over us. Galatians 1:4 reminds us, “He gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father.”

As Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, our battle is not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of evil. It is easy to feel overwhelmed, as though everything is crumbling around us. But we must never lose hope or give up. God is still with us, listening to our prayers and cries and offering us His protection.

Even when fear grips us, we are called to remain grateful. Gratitude reflects our trust in God, who remains our Defender, guiding us through every storm.

When the hills won’t move and the rivers are too deep to cross, let your gratitude rise like a song of hope. God is still in control.