At the end of the day, only you know how you are feeling. If you are not feeling secure about your standing in the company, it's for a reason. Starting your search now gives you the ability to negotiate from a position of power, as you can say no to an offer and wait for another better offer.
Now, WRT trusting your gut... You aren't in a position to know for sure how things will turn out with this company, and you won't know for sure until someone tells you ;) You deserve to be in a place where you feel secure.
Now, WRT trusting your gut... You aren't in a position to know for sure how things will turn out with this company, and you won't know for sure until someone tells you ;) You deserve to be in a place where you feel secure.