The Treasure of Trust

Several years ago, many of us watched the TV quiz program “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”. Contestants were given opportunities to win money by answering questions of increasing difficulty. Beginning with easy multiple choice questions, the categories moved to questions with one obvious “no” answer, but unless you had expert knowledge on a subject, you had little idea of the right answer. At that point, the game show host offered options: walk away with the money you had earned, or use your lifelines- remove two choices so the field was narrowed and your chances of being correct were better, or phone a friend—one who might know the answer. Sometimes it worked, and sometimes it didn't.

We face choices too. 

The mocha java chip vs. the caramel macchiato is an easy one depending on your taste for chocolate, sweetness, or calories. Other decisions might involve spending a large sum of money and knowing this is a “good idea vs. a bad one”. Sometimes issues present fine differences between good, better, and best and the decision isn’t an easy one.

How do we respond? Probably similar to the game show contestant:  a definite “yes” or “no”; eliminate choices; look for the better or best option; or phone a friend for wise counsel.

Sometimes the obvious, or the best options just aren’t there and we don’t see a solution. So,

when we face something so big, we can’t understand it,

   so deep, we feel we’re sinking,

    so unknown, we can’t define it                                           

       so unfamiliar, we can’t describe it, or

           so painful, we think we’ll break…

   we just stand, trust, and hold our Father’s hand. 

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Psalm 55:6 (NIV)

Can you share a verse that is your “go to”  lifeline in difficult times? 

What considerations do you make when faced with choices?