Fear of the unknown

Why is it that the unknown is so scary? The things we can't see, looming in the future... 

Part of it probably has to do with the fact that we want to be in control. But how can we control what we don't know and what we can't see? That is where being in control and the unknown are at odds. 

Me, I'm not exactly a person that can easily roll with the punches. I take a lot of comfort in knowing the plan, the back-up plan, and the back-up for the back-up plan. (Notice how I said, "knowing" not necessarily planning...) That being said, this whole living in a different country thing has been extremely difficult for me. Not knowing what to expect for most of our activities here has caused me a lot of unnecessary stress and anxiety... Or, I've caused myself those thing because of the not knowing what to expect. Even hearing the phrase, "expect the unexpected" I feel that prick of anxiety in my chest.

But why is it so hard for me to get over these tangible life things I cannot see when I, through faith (which is intangible), trust in a God, who I can't see, for my hope and my salvation?? Wouldn't that be even more scary than the other life stuff?

Actually, no. I may not have seen God with my own eyes, but I have seen the effects of him in the lives and places I've encountered. But, given this trust-in-what-I-can't-see faith I have, shouldn't that change the way I respond to the unknown that occurs in everyday life?

Why, yes. Yes it should. Because my initial reactions of stress and anxiety are proof that I am not trusting in that all-powerful God who I can't see, but trust with my soul. I'm only trusting in myself, what I can see, and not the One who has my back no matter what.

:: Dang it! I've been humbled again...