Facts vs. Feelings

If the idea, “Trust God even when you can’t track Him,” could be defined in a word, it would be: 2020. Well, that’s more of a number but you get the picture.

The very essence of this year has literally required me to act, walk and live by faith. From a surprise pregnancy at the onset of a global pandemic, to abruptly working from home, to creating lesson plans and schedules to homeschool a four year-old, to leading the Church Girls Movement, to maintaining new stay-at-home wife and mom responsibilities, all while trying to use this time purposefully to publish deferred projects and continue teaching, speaking and coaching. Yes, 2020 has had days that have tested and proven what I believe. And these are just a few of the things I’m juggling at home. Let’s not forget that the world is still working through COVID-19, as cases continue to rise, it’s a presidential election year, and racial injustice protests and riots due to police brutality, have also been thrown into the mix. Most days I struggle between wanting to remain informed and maintaining my mental health and peace.

While this has been a year of unique firsts, it has also had historic disappointments and celebratory moments. The expectancy of each day has never seemed to be so out of reach. Each day seems to bring more surprising, and sometimes gut-wrenching, news than the hour, day, week or month before. Further, the news is filled with recants, concessions and apologies more than ever. Even experts seem to be having a difficult time using their usual methods and research to predict what will happen next.

Although I don’t know the final outcome of this season, I’m holding on to what I do know. I know, it’s easier to trust God when He reveals the plan and outcome beforehand. We tend to walk more confidently when we know exactly what He’s doing. But, while we wait to witness how God’s glory will be revealed after all of this, I encourage you to build your confidence in what you do know. Focus on the facts versus your feelings. We know that God never fails (1 Corinthians 1:9). We know that He never turns His eye away from us (Psalm 124:4), we know He will never leave us (Hebrews 13:5). We know He greets us with renewed mercy and joy every morning (Lamentations 3:22-23; Psalm 30:5). We know He delights in the details of our life (Psalm 37:23). We know that all things work together for the good of them that love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). We know His thoughts toward us are good and His plans are to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11).

I know, what’s currently happening in 2020 may not look like what God said or is saying to you. But, if you don’t want to succumb to the fear of the unknown or feelings of uncertainty about this season, you must separate the facts from your feelings to survive. Acknowledge your feelings but remember the facts, and use them to exercise your faith and continue to believe.