Tomorrow

Tomorrow. It’s a scary thing. It’s an exciting thing. It’s affected by our choices today, yet holds the power to bring something new. It can bring destruction. It can bring hope. Tomorrow is undefined. Perhaps, then, that is why many of us spend our days thinking about tomorrow. Whether you find yourself in the category of longing for tomorrow, wishing life was better, or worrying about tomorrow, hoping it won’t bring pain, there is risk in dwelling on tomorrow. As we become consumed with the variables of what is to come, we fail to cherish the moments we have in front of us. Furthermore, we may drift into self-reliance and a lack of faith in God.

Dwelling on tomorrow is certainly something that challenges me. As a single college student who is one year away from graduating, I spend a lot of time thinking about my next steps in life. Will I find the right job? Will I be able to afford grad school right away? When will I move out of my parent’s house? Will I find the right person to marry? While these are normal questions that one may have during this stage of life, they may become dangerous if I allow them to consume me. I must be careful not to forget about the life I’ve been given right now. I must not lose sight of the fact that God has placed me where I am for a distinct purpose. The school I am attending, the job I have, and the relationships I have with others are not to be simply viewed as an intermission. These moments are just as important as the future. As tomorrow may hold new opportunities and challenges, today holds unique opportunities and trials of its own. Likewise, it is vital that I give today the same attention I give tomorrow.

Beyond running the risk of neglecting today, dwelling on tomorrow may cause me to drift towards a lack of dependence on God. As someone who always likes to have a plan, I don’t like the idea of not knowing what my future holds. It’s uncomfortable. It’s scary. It’s out of my control, and to be honest, I am not a fan of that! However, when I spend time worrying about tomorrow, I am actually cultivating a lack of trust in God. 

In the Bible, Matthew talks about how God cares for Creation. God never ceases to provide for the birds, the plants, and other creatures. How much more, then, must he care for His people? (Matthew 6:25-34).  Something I must continuously remind myself of is that when I surrender my life to God and follow Him, He will take care of my needs. Therefore, I don’t need to worry. I don’t need to rely on my own strength to control a situation because God has promised to direct me through every situation (Jeremiah 30:22). Furthermore, He has promised the same for you!

If you find yourself feeling the weight of tomorrow, I challenge you to take a step back and reflect on today. While tomorrow may present new opportunities and challenges, there is purpose in today. Allow yourself to grow, learn, and trust God through whatever it is you are facing right now. As you grow in contentment of today, God will prepare you for tomorrow. 

Until next time,

Tamara