IS GOD IN CONTROL OR ARE WE IN CONTROL?

“Yours, O Lord, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty. Everything in the heavens and on earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as the one who is over all things. Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion people are made great and given strength.” – 1 Chronicles 29:11-12.

Many people believe that they know way more than they actually do and can do more than they can actually do. Many people believe they can do it all, or at least give it a real go. They believe they can work a full-time job, pursue graduate school full-time, plus several other activities all on their own strength. Many have tried to do everything but most have failed.

As humans, our natural inclination is to try to be in control of every circumstance in our lives. When life isn’t going our way, it is so easy to get in the mindset that we can “take the wheel” from God and we will work everything out by sheer determination. Determination is an admirable quality, but the reality is that no matter what, God is always in control. We simply can’t be in control when God is in control. Trying to be in control and giving God control just doesn’t work – they can’t co-exist. We must come to realize that He is in control of every aspect of our lives. He has your best interest in mind. He wants you to live the purposeful life that He has predestined for you. He knows what we need much better than we do. He is the one taking you exactly where you are supposed to go while at the same time having us exactly where we are supposed to be.

The process of giving God control and letting things go is definitely not easy. Here are some ways that may help you relinquish control. First, talk to God: God wants to spend time with you. Spend time talking to Him. Talk openly and freely about everything. Let Him know that you’re struggling to let go of control and invite Him to help you. Read the Bible: When you read scripture, you get to know God. It only makes sense that the more you know someone, the more you learn about their character. It’s easier to trust God and let Him take the wheel when we know Him.

Then we need to listen to Him and thank Him. The Lord speaks to us, so we need to listen to what He has to say. Even if you struggle with control, approach God with a thankful heart. It’s easier to release control when you’re thankful for what someone has done for you.

God is patiently waiting for you to let Him take the wheel. He remains faithful in spite of our unfaithfulness. All you have to do is ask for directions and let God take the wheel.

God’s plan will always be better. No matter how much you try to control your life, God’s will is what you should strive for. That means giving Him full control of our lives because He knows exactly what He is doing. Give God the keys and surrender to His will.

Discussion Questions:

What does God in control mean to you?
What would we do differently this week if we knew God is in control?