Issue 1218 – Losing Control – August 10, 2023
Sometimes, we find ourselves stuck between the proverbial rock and hard place. We feel empty, frustrated and without control over things. We have tried everything we know how to do, used every resource we can think of and still haven’t overcome the problem and have no choice but to rely on the help or mercy of someone else. That can be uncomfortable because it means we have no control over the outcome.
Personally, I like to have control, but in all honesty, that desire has caused me a lot of problems over the years. I can blindly charge ahead toward my goals, using my strength and not always aware of all (any of?) the facts. Before I know it, I can find myself hurting someone else or way over my head and not knowing where to turn. I didn’t intend to leave destruction in my wake; it just seemed to follow.
The combination of having been brought up to be self-reliant and having a desire to control things makes it hard for me to ask for help or accept mercy and forgiveness. Somewhere along the line, I had learned not to trust or even fear such things.
Coming to know Jesus has changed that for me. I’m a work in process and far from perfect. Still, there has been great freedom in surrendering and putting myself at the mercy of a Lord who loves me unconditionally and will forgive me.
At first, the forgiveness seemed too good to be true, a loophole to get away with things or having a hidden catch. As my relationship with Jesus deepened, I was less likely to deliberately do something requiring His mercy and forgiveness.
It is wonderfully freeing to have a relationship with Him and to trust His ways. Knowing that the Creator of Heaven and Earth even knows that I exist, let alone cares for me, is incredible. To think that He created me to be in a relationship with Him is wonderful beyond anything I can fully comprehend.
Having Him in my life doesn’t mean everything is perfect. I still have my share of problems and make plenty of mistakes, but it beats not having Him in every way.
It isn’t just me that has this opportunity. It is open to every person who sincerely seeks Him. He will gladly accept your cry for mercy and help and welcome you with open arms. David, the ancient King of Israel, knew it to be true.
Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually! Psalm 105:4
The Lord has heard my plea; the Lord accepts my prayer. Psalm 6:9
No situation is too complicated for Him to handle, and no person is beyond His care.
May you find your comfort and strength in Jesus.
Be Blessed
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (For the glory of God alone)
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is from the English Standard Version (ESV).
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