O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. II Corinthians 4:18 NIV 

Disappointment is one of those tough feelings for us humans, and no matter how hard we try to avoid it, at some point, in some way, we have to face it. And sometimes that can happen during a season of much-needed change in our lives. We may have come to what people refer to as a “tipping point,” feeling as if something needs to shift but we’re not sure what or how. We might be feeling extreme discomfort, facing a lack of resources, or realizing we need to get out of an unhealthy situation. So what do we do? We just make the changes we need and move on, right? It sounds simple enough. But what happens when it’s not only in our hands—when there are circumstances or relationships involved that are beyond our control? That can be such a helpless feeling. We may begin to feel overwhelmed and even project our fears into the future, wondering what we will do if everything stays the same. 

Before we allow the what-ifs to take over, there are a few things that we can remind ourselves. First: Even if things don’t happen the way we’re hoping they will, it’s going to be okay. We may not be able to see what “okay” looks like at that moment, but we have to trust that, in God’s hands, our lives will always work out for our best. Second: In those times when we feel fear or anxiety welling up, we can find a few quiet moments and become deeply aware of our Savior’s presence. We can remember that He sees our lives from beginning to end. And while our hoped-for change may not be fulfilled in the way we think it should be, He will always make a better way for us. Most importantly, our ultimate hope will be realized in Him one day and disappointment will be a thing of the past forever. “O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go” has been sung throughout the years to bring people that reminder of hope when they need it most: 

O Love that will not let me go, 
I rest my weary soul in Thee. 
I give Thee back the life I owe,  
That in Thine ocean depths its flow May richer, fuller be. 

What wonderful sense of relief and assurance He has promised! We can draw close to Him, especially during uncertain times when we’re not sure how it’s all going to work out. The more we focus on His goodness and all the ways we see it around (and within!) us, the less we sink into despair and discouragement. The more we place our trust in Him, the less we depend on certain outcomes for our happiness and fulfillment. So let’s do what we can, hope for the best, and remember that He’s already provided what we need most—the gift of Himself—for every moment of our lives. 

Lord Jesus, You are my hope forever. May I hold tightly to that truth each day, no matter what life brings. When I face those much-needed changes, I trust that You will guide me through them. Help me let go of my ideas of how things should be and open my heart to whatever You have for me. I could never ask for more than Your faithful, loving presence in my life. Amen. 

Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine: Old-Time Devotions for Fresh Starts 

Looking for more inspiration? You can find hope & encouragement in God’s Word every day with the new DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible now available on DaySpring.com!