Susanne Maynes

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Why Christians don’t need to know the future

January 27, 2021 by Susanne Maynes 2 Comments

Back when I was in college, I used a color-coordinated calendar to schedule assignment deadlines and test days. These days, I approach my seminary studies in a similar way.

I’m a planner, through and through. I like things mapped out in advance. I like the feeling of being ahead of the game. I hate bumping up against deadlines.

That said, I have no interest in finding out my own future.

I’ve walked with Jesus long enough to know it’s a bad idea to try to figure out what’s coming down the pike.

Here’s why:

If I were informed of the good things God has in store before they happen, I would try to analyze how these things could possibly be. I’d want to know too much about the particulars.

(Plus I would spoil his surprises.)

On the other hand, if I knew about coming hardships ahead of time, I would only worry and fret about how to get through them.

I would get anxious long before receiving the grace for that upcoming situation.

Whether it’s about desirable or undesirable circumstances, the temptation is to try to take control instead of letting God be God.

The Lord knows it’s not good for us to have too much information about the future.

“God knows it’s not good for us to have too much information about the future.” #Christianliving #faithequalstrust

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That’s one reason he gave explicit instructions to his people not to consult with mediums or seek guidance outside of the direction that comes from knowing him (Leviticus 19:31).

(God certainly gives us insight for our lives by means of his written Word and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, but the roadmap and blueprint belong to him alone.)

He knows our temptation and tendency to try to forecast and control.

Here’s the thing: our motive for wanting to control is lack of trust. The reason we want to figure out our futures is that, deep down, we don’t think God is going to get it right.

We don’t trust Jesus at the wheel.

Every time I mentally and emotionally launch into forecasting my day or week or year instead of simply staying in step with Jesus, I borrow trouble.

“You know that this day will bring difficulties,” says Sarah Young in Jesus Calling, “and you are trying to think your way through these trials… Rehearsing your troubles results in experiencing them many times, whereas you are meant to go through them only when they actually occur. Do not multiply your suffering in this way! Instead, come to Me, and relax in My peace.”

2020 was a rough year, and many have voiced a desire for 2021 to be better.

I get it. I don’t want another weird year, either—but I don’t have a burning desire to know the outcomes.

What if it is another difficult year?  I don’t need to know.

What I do need to know is that God is completely worthy of my trust.

I need to remind myself that he works all things for the good of those who love him, and that nothing exists which can separate me from his love (Romans 8:28, 35-39).

Why would I sweat the details with promises as powerful as these?

A few years ago, I penned a song describing my fear, pain and confusion during a hard season.  Perhaps you can relate to those feelings right now. As you read this concluding chorus, may you experience peace about your future:

All I really need to know is You are always faithful;

All I really need to know is that Your plan is good.

All I need to understand is the greatness of Your love;

All I really need to know is You.

 

 

Image by jplenio from Pixabay

This Advent season, what are you waiting for?

December 21, 2020 by Susanne Maynes Leave a Comment

This Advent season, what are you waiting for?

“I’m so done with 2020!” said a friend in a recent conversation. “I’m totally over it.” If I had a dollar for every time I’ve heard that sentiment since June or so, I’d be rich. (You, too?) The whole population is more than ready to put this past year to bed. It’s been a weird one. A tough one. In too many cases, a tragic one. So it’s understandable that we just want this year to go away. We want life to go back to “normal.”  We want to regain what was familiar. I can’t wait to get with my extended family again. I can’t wait to go out without a mask on. I can’t wait until Continue Reading

Did the early Church provide a model for church life today?

December 2, 2020 by Susanne Maynes 1 Comment

Did the early Church provide a model for church life today?

Imagine the earliest days of Christianity, as in, book of Acts Christianity. A most unlikely bunch of folks are meeting together, testifying to the power of their resurrected Lord (Acts 4:32-35). They  experience signs and wonders such as healings. They gather often, break bread together, listen to the apostles’ teachings, and meet one another’s practical needs. In fact, their love for one another is so radical that they sell their stuff to take care of each other. They are devoted. They are unified. It's amazing. Sounds fantastic, right? I’ve heard plenty of statements over Continue Reading

How to be thankful even in 2020

November 20, 2020 by Susanne Maynes 2 Comments

How to be thankful even in 2020

Out on a walk one day  a few years back, I noticed a cluster of people on the sidewalk about a block from home. I knew the one couple, so I stopped to chat. As the minutes ticked by, I wondered if there might be an opportunity to talk about the Lord. After all, I’ve spent decades in church being constantly challenged to share the good news about Jesus. You know, that subtle (or not so subtle) pressure to lead people to Christ. Don’t get me wrong; I want people to receive the love of God and abundant life. Still, the temptation to count evangelistic trophies is not Continue Reading

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