We hardly need reminders of the uncertainty of life these days. So much is happening: the economy, wars, new leadership in Washington. These and other current events influence our lives now and in the future. As our national and world economies gasp for air, we wonder about our personal finances. Industries are struggling, and the stock market is limping. Daily announcements of surging unemployment rates, layoffs and cutbacks echo in our ears and stir our insecurities.

And then there is the ongoing fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. While the merits of each can be discussed and measured in different ways, the cost in lives and dollars is staggering. Nearly 4,000 Americans have been killed and 29,300 wounded — even more so Iraqis and other nationals.

We have spent $603 billion — as much as $1.3 trillion with indirect costs — and may run as high as $3 trillion before it’s over. And none of us this side of heaven knows when or how the fighting will end.

A new administration prepares to take the helm of our country in a few weeks. It is a historic time with many implications. And yet with the outcome of an election comes the challenges — leadership for some, cooperation for others.

In the midst of all this upheaval and uncertainty, we know what Christians are called to do.

• We must have hearts of faith. Trouble can be real as well as imagined. We are to trust in the one who truly rules and reigns over all things.

• We must pray. Lift up our leaders on a daily basis. Intercede for an end to wars. Trust God to care for us, even as he does the birds of heaven, and to provide for our needs.

• We must love our neighbor. Look for opportunities to do good and speak kindly. Practice grace, not anger.

Simply put, find strength and assurance in God in times that are anything but sure.