On second thought . . .

By Ann Jahns

Can you relate to second-guessing? Do you doubt your decisions habitually? If you do, then you have some work to do on strengthening your trust in God. Here are some confidence-building tips to help get you started:

  • More often than not, second-guessed conclusions are not based on solid facts. It’s guessing—anticipating an outcome that’s usually based on fear.
  • Ask yourself why you doubt a particular decision. Do you have all the facts? If not, then find them. It’s the same as studying for a test in school. You can’t get the best passing grade without it. 
  • Is it a decision you wouldn’t mind letting God know about? You know he knows already, but you can fool yourself with this through self-justification. If you’re not sure, ask someone who is spiritually mature and knowledgeable in Scripture. Look up Matthew 18:20, and you will know why.
  • While your Bible is open, read the entire chapter of Proverbs 3. It was written for such a time as this!

Speaking from firsthand experience, prayer, time, and practice increase confidence and trust. And you know what? It’s stress relieving. 

“His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness” (2 Peter 1:3).

All glory to God that growing in his wisdom with a Christ-like humility means getting off the “what if” train of thought once and for all!

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About the Author

Ann Jahns

Ann Jahns and her husband live in Wisconsin as recent empty nesters, having had the joy of raising three boys to young adulthood. She is a marketing coordinator for a Christian church body and a freelance proofreader and copy editor. Ann has been privileged to teach Sunday school and lead Bible studies for women of all ages. One of her passions is supporting women in the “sandwich generation” as they experience the unique joys and challenges of raising children while supporting aging parents.

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