What I know

Whenever I face times of uncertainty, conflict, and crisis or have major decisions to make I always start with WHAT I KNOW.  For me, I lose capacity to remain emotionally grounded when I try to grasp the “what ifs” or the “why’s” that my heart will throw at my mind (or is it my mind throws at my heart?).  In these times I have to put my feet on something solid, or else every thought and mental journey will lead toward another concern that will have the same effect as stepping on quick sand. I have to get my footing.

That’s why I force myself to go back to WHAT I KNOW. I know I’m a son of God, I know that I have a wife and sons that love me. I know that God has always walked me through the uncertainties of my past. I know that I’m imperfect and that God brought me through my historical obstacles IN SPITE of my imperfections. I know that He knows what’s best for me, even when I can’t make sense of the physical, mental and emotional picture before me. I KNOW I can trust HIM.

Ultimately, for me, I know that I can trust God. I can trust His ability to help me navigate the complexities of life-even when I screw things up. Like king David describes in Psalm 23 “even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I won’t fear-because YOU’RE WITH ME.” I know that He is with me, even when I don’t feel Him and the scary shadows of fear are all around me.

Leaders have to return regularly to their place of “what I know”. They have to sink themselves into a place of security that is not the uncertain ground of opportunity, failure, change, conflict, loss, betrayal, tragedy, success, pride or image. When a leader is firmly grounded, they are ready to display the leadership necessary for those following to navigate their own journey. 

What is your place of “what I know”?