January 18
Trusting
Beyond Borders
“He did not doubt God’s promise. Instead, he became strong in his faith and gave glory to God.”
Romans 4:20 (NIrV)
Maria and Javier sat at the dining table, a world map spread out in front of them. Javier traced a finger across the map to a small European country. “This is it, Maria. This could be our new home,” he said softly.
Maria folded her arms, her expression tense. “But what if it’s a mistake? We don’t know anyone there, the language is difficult, and what if we can’t find jobs? What if we can’t make it work?”
Javier nodded, feeling the weight of her words. “I’m scared too. But staying here feels… like we’re stuck. We’ve been praying about this for months, Maria. Maybe this is God opening a door for us.”
The silence that followed was heavy, broken only by the ticking of the kitchen clock. Maria glanced at their toddler, Elena, playing nearby. The idea of uprooting their little family felt overwhelming, but so did the struggles they’d been facing—Javier’s stagnating career, Maria’s inability to find work, and the rising costs of living.
That night, Maria couldn’t sleep. She picked up her Bible and opened it to the verse she’d read earlier in the week, Romans 4:20. “He did not doubt God’s promise. Instead, he became strong in his faith and gave glory to God.”
She paused, reflecting on Abraham’s story. He didn’t have all the answers, and yet, he trusted God’s promises. Maria realized that her fear was overshadowing her faith. “God,” she prayed, “I don’t know what the future holds, but I know You do. Help me trust You like Abraham did. Give me courage to take this step, if it’s Your will.”
The next morning, Maria approached Javier. “Let’s do it,” she said, her voice steady. “I don’t want to let fear keep us from what God might have planned. We’ll trust Him and go.”
Javier smiled, relief and hope in his eyes. Together, they knelt in prayer, asking for guidance, strength, and provision as they prepared for the move.
Months later, as they settled into their new life abroad, Maria reflected on how God had provided in unexpected ways—a kind neighbor who became a friend, Javier’s new job that brought joy back to his work, and even her own blossoming confidence in learning the language. Though the journey wasn’t easy, their faith had grown stronger, just as the verse had promised.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for being faithful to Your promises, even when we can’t see the full picture.
Like Abraham, help us to trust in You and grow stronger in our faith.
When fear and doubt arise, remind us that You are in control and that Your plans are always for our good.
Thank You for guiding Maria and Javier, and please guide us in our own journeys of trust and obedience.
Give us courage to take steps of faith, knowing that You will provide for our every need.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
