Let Go of "What Ifs" and Find Rest

Marla Waldron
May 9
4 min read

What is God’s vision for my life? What goals should I set? How do I move forward from heartbreak?

Planning my new path ahead felt like the right thing to do, especially after losing my mother this spring. Yet I found myself overthinking every detail, overwhelmed by “what ifs” and trying to cover all possibilities. In those seasons of indecision, longing, or waiting, it’s easy to miss the truth that God is right there with us. One of the most powerful gifts He gives is His presence.

“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:20

I’ve learned that planning is often necessary and helpful, but Jesus reminds me that spending my energy worrying isn’t.

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” – Matthew 6:25

He never says we shouldn’t think about our basic needs or make plans for provision—He knows exactly what I need. Yet choosing to let go of "what ifs" often points me back to my spiritual dependence on Him. He invites me to trust Him as my ultimate provider.

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life.’” – John 14:6

If God cares so tenderly for the birds and the flowers, I know He cares even more for me.

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” – Matthew 6:33

The message has become clear in my life: don’t waste time worrying or overthinking. Seek God first. Do the work He’s entrusted to me, and trust Him to provide, protect, and guide every step ahead.

FOR FURTHER THOUGHT

Here are some practical ways you can put “seek first” into practice as you plan your next steps:

1. Replace lies with God’s truth.

You become what you give your mind to. The goal of reading Scripture isn’t just information but transformation. Let God’s Word comfort you, challenge you, and spark questions about your future and decisions.

2. Fill your thoughts with God regularly.

Give your mind a verse to ponder. For example:

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind…” – Romans 12:2

Let that truth shape how you think about planning and provision.

3. Focus on what is good. Make room for uplifting thoughts and less room for the hurtful ones.

“Fix your thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, admirable…”– Philippians 4:8

4. Look forward, not back. Don’t dwell on past hurts or mistakes.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:18–19

5. Rejoice in the journey. Even suffering produces something good.

“We rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” – Romans 5:3–4

Even when you face the worst-case scenario, remember that God’s not surprised—He’s gone before you. No matter what happens, trials won’t have the final say. God is faithful, powerful, and still providing and protecting His children.

Questions for reflection (and to share in the comments):

What “what ifs” or worries are taking up most of your mental space right now?
Which attribute of God (Provider, Healer, Shepherd) speaks most clearly into your current season?
Can you think of a time when pain led you to a deeper dependence on God?
What’s one small step you can take today to trust His provision rather than your own planning?

PRAYER

Loving God, thank you for your care and provision. Regardless of my situation you know what I need and want for the future. I believe that you are enough, and your will and love is enough for me. Help me surrender my concerns and plans for the future to you. Let me pursue you and hold on to your truth. Show me that I can trust you to take care of all that I need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

ABOUT MARLA WALDRON

Marla Waldron is a devoted daughter of the Heavenly Father, and she embraces her roles as a sister, wife, mother, teacher, and friend with grace and dedication. For 35 years, she has served as a public school educator, mentoring countless beginning teachers and currently working as an Intervention Specialist with Kindergarten students. In her local church and community, Marla faithfully contributes by volunteering at food and clothing banks, participating in fundraising events, and actively engaging in, as well as leading, small group Bible studies for The Dented Fender Ministry. A mother of three grown children, Marla has also taken on the responsibility of caring for her 50-year-old brother with multiple handicaps since their father's passing. Despite facing dark tunnels of grief and self-doubt, Marla has learned to lean on God’s grace, holding tightly to His truths and trusting in His guidance one step at a time. She and her husband live in Ohio, embracing the unpredictable ride of life with faith and resilience.

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