While going through some old files, I came across a 1992 special issue
of TIME magazine titled “Beyond the Year 2000: What To Expect in the New
Millennium.” It was fascinating to read the predictions made 2 decades ago
about what the future would hold. Some general observations were on target, but
no one foresaw many of the events and innovations that have radically changed
our lives. The most telling statement to me was, “The first rule of forecasting
should be that the unforeseen keeps making the future unforeseeable.”
James reminds us that any view of the future that omits God is foolish
and proud. “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to such and
such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit’; whereas you
do not know what will happen tomorrow. . . . Instead you ought to say, ‘If the
Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that’” (James 4:13-15).
Many people used to begin their statement of plans with, “Lord willing.”
The phrase may have become trite, but the acknowledgment of God’s overruling
hand is not.
As we look ahead with God firmly in view, we can face the future with
confidence in His loving plan. (RBC)
