Hope in Uncertainty
By Ps Alby Yip
Recent events, which have affected Singapore both directly and indirectly, remind us that the world we live in is far less predictable than we would like it to be: the West’s trade tariffs, the conflicts in the Middle East, the super El Niño, the haze and, most recently, the sudden cut in natural gas supplies.
It is a stark reminder that even in a well-managed, carefully planned and relatively secure nation like Singapore, we cannot control everything that happens around us. Our Lord Jesus Himself, in Matthew 24, clearly reminds us that we should not be surprised by increasing troubles, moral decline and global instability.
In fact, He says, “See that you are not alarmed…” (v. 6). But the Lord was not just telling His disciples about the end times, cosmic events or current socio-economic affairs. He was reminding them, and us, of our responsibility, especially when the world gets worse and its needs grow greater.
“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes” (vv. 45–46). It is easy to be patient when life goes according to plan, generous when we have plenty, and kind when others treat us well.
But what happens when rising costs strain our finances, uncertainty threatens our livelihood, or someone disappoints or mistreats us? That is when our faith is tested.
Our hands, and especially our hearts, need not be weighed down or tied down. We can pray instead of panicking, speak graciously instead of spreading fear, help a neighbour who is struggling, encourage someone who is discouraged, and continue serving faithfully in our homes, workplaces and churches.
When the world grows darker, the Church and Christians should shine all the more brightly. One of the greatest dangers in uncertain times is not simply the fear of losing what we have, but becoming so attached to what we have that the thought of losing it overwhelms us. Christians should plan wisely, work diligently, care for their families and exercise good stewardship.
But we must never mistake temporary blessings for eternal security. When our security rests entirely on our health, a medical report can rob us of peace. When our identity depends on our career, retirement or retrenchment can leave us feeling worthless. When our happiness depends on financial stability, every market fluctuation can become a source of anxiety.
But when our hope is anchored in Christ, we can face uncertainty without being consumed by it. We can enjoy God’s blessings without being enslaved by them, endure losses without losing our ultimate hope, and face even death with confidence in the resurrection.
