It’s easy to micro-focus on your current situation that’s not ideal and to forget that what seems impossibly big is actually incredibly small in light of eternity. So much of what has kept me awake at night over the years didn’t really matter as much as I wanted it to matter enough to waste my anxiety on it. I’ve probably forgotten a lot of it and time has a way of putting these things into proper perspective.

I remember as a kid being afraid of quicksand. I remember “stop, drop, and roll” in case I ever burst into flames spontaneously. I seem to recall an earthquake drill or two back in the day. None of those things has turned out to be a real issue for me. I can’t say when the last time was that I stepped in quicksand or actually caught on fire. And (knock on wood) no earthquakes yet.

I also remember what someone taught me. If you can imagine the absolute worst possible scenario playing out then remember that God will still be with you, it’s not so bad. Basically, if what you’re afraid of actually came to pass — and that’s highly unlikely based on my own history of worrying — even that can’t separate you from the love of God in Christ.

Also, it’s momentary. Paul told us that the absolute worst that can happen in this lifetime is a light and momentary affliction compared to what’s coming. Hint: it’s the good stuff. It’s the absolute best possible outcome anyone who belongs to Jesus can hope for. It’s all your best daydreams and hopes and wishes multiplied by a thousand times a thousand.

You have heaven to look forward to and Jesus to with you until you get there. That makes everything worth it!