Laughter in the Face of the Unknown

This post is written by Courtney Cohen.

Every night before we tuck our toddler into bed, we read a verse on her wall: “She is clothed in strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future” (Proverbs 31:25). Until merely a week or two ago, these words for us were simply comforting declarations over the type of woman our daughter will become when she grows up. But, with the frenzy of the unknown we have faced in recent days, these words have reached a new level of profound effect my soul – enlightenment towards the woman I have the opportunity to be now.

On the outside, I am often clothed in yoga pants and a comfy T-shirt, especially now with local mandates keeping us at home. But what clothes us inwardly? Without doubt, the enemy is on the prowl, tempting us to exchange our garments of strength and dignity for those of weakness and fear.

Can we experience concern and live with caution without becoming overwhelmed with a spirit of fear and lies of weakness? Yes, of course. But, as we are reminded in Scripture, we must entrust our hearts and our minds to the guardianship of God’s peace (Philippians 4:7). Where can we go to find such peace?

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

(Philippians 4:4-8)

 We can go to God with gratitude for the simple blessings. We can go to Him with our fears and unknowns. We can go to Him in honest prayer, in urgent appeal. We can fix our minds on worthy things. This pattern provided here contains our steps which lead towards the reception of God’s peace in our lives. And which of us aren’t in need of more of that?

The Proverbs 31 woman continues on with her day to the best of her ability. And her day is summarized at its end by a lack of fear, by laughter and strength and dignity. She rises and makes provisions for her family. She shares with those in need. She works from home, raises her children, and builds a solid reputation for her husband and herself. She knows where to appropriate her fear – fearing the Lord alone.

So, ladies, in the face of the unknown where circumstances seem to shift as swiftly as we adjust to them, say “Hello” to your morning with hope in the air, knowing that God has good things for you and your loved ones. May we rise up with strength and dignity, laughing without fear of the future, entrusting the wellness of our hearts and minds to the only One able to protect them, Christ Jesus.

Speaker and author of The Sacred Shadow, Courtney Cohen passionately helps people encounter the reality and nearness of God in everyday life. Courtney and her husband, Steve, co-founded and serve together at Now Found Ministries. Along with their three children, Courtney and Steve live in Texas. Stay in touch with Courtney at www.nowfound.org.

Photo by Jelleke Vanooteghem on Unsplash