Faith When Life Is Murky: Trust Your Master, Not Your Master Plan

There are moments in life when we want all the details. We want the road map, the master plan, the clear next steps. But what if God doesn’t hand us the plan? What if instead, He simply says, “Trust Me”?

That was the heart of this week’s message from Pastor Tim. Drawing from the story of the Triumphal Entry in John 12, we saw how the disciples were present at one of the most significant events in history — and yet they didn’t fully understand what was happening. John even records, “His disciples did not understand these things at first.”

Still, they obeyed.

And that’s the big idea: God calls us to compliance before clarity.

When Life Feels Murky
The title of the message was Faith When Life Is Murky. Pastor Tim reminded us that in times of confusion, disappointment, or uncertainty, our calling is not to figure everything out but to trust our Master.

It’s easy to demand clarity. We want to know why God asks us to take a certain step, why He allows hardship, or why His timing seems off. Yet Scripture consistently shows us that obedience comes first. Understanding often comes later.

Think of the disciples tasked with finding the donkey for Jesus. It made little sense, but they went anyway. In hindsight, they realized the prophetic significance. Obedience unlocked revelation.

The M.U.R.K.Y. Roadmap
Pastor Tim shared an acronym from Pastor Levi Lusko that helps us navigate these seasons when life feels unclear:

Muscle Confusion: Trials mix up our “spiritual workout” so our faith can grow stronger.
Unorthodox Methods: God rarely works the way we expect. He uses burning bushes, simple loaves and fish, and yes, even donkeys.
Readiness: Just like the donkey was tied up and available, God looks for people who are ready and available to be used.
Kingdom: It’s not about building our own castle, but about living for His Kingdom.
You’ll Know More Later: Often, clarity comes only after obedience.

This framework reminds us that murky moments are not wasted moments. They are invitations to deeper trust.

Back to School and Back to Trust
For many families, this week means the start of a new school year. It’s a season full of nerves, excitement, and unknowns. Whether you’re a student, a teacher, or a parent adjusting to a new routine, remember: God goes before you.

The first day of school may feel uncertain, but it’s also a chance to practice trust. Like the disciples, you may not see the full picture yet — but you can still walk in obedience.

Trust and Obey
At the close of the message, Pastor Tim brought us back to a hymn that has stood the test of time: “trust and obey, for there’s no other way to be happy in Jesus.” That’s really what this is all about. Not trusting our plans, but trusting our Master. Not demanding clarity, but choosing compliance.

When life is murky, Jesus is still trustworthy. He sees the big picture. He knows what we cannot. And He invites us into the joy of simple obedience.

Reflection Question: Where might God be calling you to trust Him without demanding all the details?

Prayer: Lord, help me to trust You even when life feels murky. Teach me to obey without demanding clarity and to rest in the truth that You are my faithful Master.