Short Thoughts

Oftentimes through the wrath of man and the providence of God, we find ourselves in unexpected situations. Uncertainty causes much anxiety to us and our minds become greatly distressed. This is man responding to his circumstances. We are responsive creatures and cannot help but respond in some way to an unexpected circumstance. However, a prolonged response of anxiety is not Christian.

Paul had learned to be content from one extreme state to another and everywhere in between (Philippians 4:11). The secret of his contentment was stated plainly in the first chapter of the Philippian epistle, “For to me to live is Christ” (Philippians 1:21). He was Christ-centered, providing a sure and steadfast anchor for his soul. The storm may come suddenly and his vessel rise and fall with the swelling sea, but his position was fixed because of the anchor.

God’s word to His people is this: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3). With our mind stayed on God, we will not waver with the tumult of circumstances. The peace spoken of is in contrast to protracted anxiety of mind over uncertainties. The passage does promise we shall never be exposed to danger, but that we may abide the danger with peace in our mind. So, let us be stayed on God, trusting in Him, and let storms come what may.

Jesus, Savior, pilot me Over life’s tempestuous sea:
Unknown waves before me roll, Hiding rocks and treacherous shoal;
Chart and compass come from Thee, Jesus, Savior, pilot me.

As a mother stills her child, Thou canst hush the ocean wild;
Boisterous waves obey Thy will When Thou sayest to them “Be still!”
Wondrous Sovereign of the sea, Jesus, Savior, pilot me.

When at last I near the shore, And the fearful breakers roar
‘Twixt me and the peaceful rest. Then, while leaning on Thy breast,
May I hear Thee say to me, “Fear not, I will pilot thee.”