“What are you going to do next?”

“What are you going to do next?”

I’ve been asked it at the grocery store, the gas station, in text messages and emails, and in a steady stream of phone calls from good friends… people, I’m sure, aren’t trying to pry, but are simply demonstrating their concern and curiosity. Thank you.

Next to “How are ya?” it’s probably the most common question I’ve heard in the past few weeks.

And, when I answer simply, I’m not sure yet, it is often met with a puzzled look or a pregnant pause. “Well,” one person responded, “you seem remarkably at ease for a person in transition.”

They’re right. I do feel remarkably at ease. As I’ve said before, we have a God who has a phenomenal track record of providing for His people, and it gives me hope.

It helps me to have patience.

And it gives me reason to lean into Him.

But this morning, as I read Psalm 40 (in The One Year Bible), I discovered another great reason to celebrate in times like these.

Following the familiar words of Psalm 40:2, “He lifted me out of the slimy pit,” verse 3 says, “Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.”

I know God has a plan for me tomorrow, next week, and five years from now. But today… I know he has a plan for that too: that as I walk an uncharted road, and trust in God to “set my feet on a rock,” many will see and learn to fear the Lord and place their trust in him.

I’m not sure what struggle you’re walking through today. I don’t know what grief you’re facing, what thing you’re waiting for, or what uncertainty lingers in your life. But today, take comfort in this promise from Psalm 40: that as you honor the Lord in this circumstance, God will allow others to see him in it, and follow your example as you trust in him.

“Many, LORD my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us, none can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare.” Psalm 40:5