Life's Uncertainties

This post is from Dave McCormack

The main theme of Chapter 5 of Mark Batterson’s book In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day revolves around uncertainty, and the inescapable fact that life is filled with it. I truly believe that God has a plan for my life. What I don’t know is what that plan is and when God will change my direction to accomplish His plan. Enter the element of surprise (and hence, uncertainty).

Life would be so easy if I knew what/when every occurrence would happen for the rest of my life. I would feel safe and secure. On the other hand, that would make life rather boring. The element of surprise adds a little “zip”. Personally, I look forward to a little uncertainty, as long as I don’t forget that “…God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28). Maybe that makes me a lion chaser (amateur status).

On page 88, Mark says “…the greatest moments in life are unscripted. They are unrehearsed and unplanned and unpredictable, and that is precisely what makes them unforgettable.” Looking back, the most significant events that drastically changed my life are the ones most easily remembered. I went from living in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Virginia, Minnesota because God gave me a change in jobs. Upon arriving in Virginia, my first thought was “What am I doing here?” I didn’t know anyone, so I was starting over completely from square one. I never dreamed God would use that circumstance to further my career, meet my future wife, and bring me closer to Him. I even became a Board Member at my church. Go figure!

Chapter 5 made me take stock of my life and I realized that the uncertainties (and resulting outcomes) prove that God exists and that He is definitely on my side. The events that have taken place could never have happened by random chance. They had to be carefully orchestrated by design. My faith has increased tremendously because of this realization. On page 89, Mark Batterson says “Faith is embracing the uncertainties of life. It is chasing the lions that cross our paths. It is recognizing a divine appointment when you see one.” Thank God for life’s uncertainties.

Mark Batterson sums up this chapter on page 89 by saying “Embrace relational uncertainty. It’s called romance. Embrace spiritual uncertainty. It’s called mystery. Embrace occupational uncertainty. It’s called destiny. Embrace emotional uncertainty. It’s called joy. Embrace intellectual uncertainty. It’s called revelation.” If I can discipline myself to embrace uncertainty like Mark outlines in the above statements, I know that I will truly live life the way that God intended for me to.

Dave McCormack