Do not fear the future

Have you ever heard of chronophobia? Me neither; but it’s a thing… a “fear of the future”. It is a fear of the “passing of time” and it leads to anxiety, stress, depression, hopelessness and confusion. You may not be chronophobic, but we can all suffer a little with fear of the future when we have the wrong mindset or perspective about it.

Why might people fear the future? I can think of a few reasons:

Lack of certainty … what will happen?
Lack of clarity … how to invest time?
Lack of compass … what direction to take?

A lack of certainty (other than death and taxes!), lack of clarity and lack of compass can create all kinds of negative emotions about the future, all contributing to fear!

How can I overcome my fear of the future? Prepare for it! Most people fear the future because they aren’t prepared for it! One common fear for people is public speaking. It is generally a “Top 10” kind of fear. But even that fear can be overcome by preparation - having something to say! Preparation eliminates all kinds of fears and anxieties for the future.

To best prepare for your future... Decide what you are going to do with Jesus! (John 3:16-17). Jesus didn't show up by accident. He came with a purpose - to bridge the huge gap between us and our heavenly Father created by our sin. God loves us so much He gave His Son Jesus, to die for our sin to bridge that gap. Admit your sin and commit your life to Jesus as Savior and Lord! (Romans 10:9-10). Have you invited Jesus to be your Savior and Lord? If you want to prepare for your future, then this is the most important decision you will ever make! Don’t fear the future, prepare for it!

Once you have committed to Christ as your Savior and Lord, God has made some amazing promises to you about your future! What promises has God made for my future?

1) God promises to straighten my perilous paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Life can, and will, get crazy and curvy; but when I trust in Him, think like Him and lean on Him, God promises to direct and straighten my perilous paths in life! Pray a prayer like this one in Psalm 25:4-5.

2) God promises to get me past my trying temptations! (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Life is full of temptations! God is faithful! He will give you the power you need to withstand whatever is tempting you, and will provide a way out, no matter what the temptation is. What is tempting you these days? Where do you need God’s help? Ask Him for it today! (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

3) God promises to carry me through my treacherous troubles. (Psalm 9:9-10)

Life has plenty of trouble, but you already knew that, didn't you? Chances are good you will experience trouble in the future… you may be wrestling with it right now. I love what Jesus said about trouble… 33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. With Jesus, there is no need to be afraid! When He spoke those words to His disciples, He knew they would be facing some serious threats and trouble. He wanted them to be assured and confident in Him. Are you?

4) God promises my salvation is secure! Jesus said: 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. John 10:27-29. If you are a Believer, your future is secure in God’s heaven! (Philippians 1:6)