Letting Go and Letting God: Embracing Faith Over Fear

 

Dear sisters in Christ,

In our walk with God, we often find ourselves grappling with the desire for control. As women of faith, we learn to trust in the Lord's plan, yet our human nature sometimes leads us down paths of worry and anxiety. Today, let's explore how we can address these control issues godly, finding encouragement and inspiration in His word.

The Illusion of Control

We live in a world that often tells us we need to have everything figured out. From our careers to our relationships, from our finances to our futures, the pressure to be in control can be overwhelming. But as children of God, we're called to a different standard – one of faith and trust in His perfect plan.

Remember the words of Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." This verse reminds us that our understanding is limited, but God's wisdom is infinite.

Fear: The Root of Control Issues

At the heart of our desire for control often lies fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of failure, fear of pain. But here's a powerful truth we must embrace: Fear makes us forgetful. When we're gripped by fear, we forget God's faithfulness, His promises, and His undying love for us.

This is why we must purposefully look back and trace God's hand of faithfulness in our lives. Recall the times when He came through for you, when He turned your mourning into dancing when He made a way where there seemed to be no way. These memories are not just fond recollections; they're testimonies of God's faithfulness and powerful weapons against fear.

The Trap of Worst-Case Scenario Thinking

How often have we found ourselves caught in the web of worst-case-scenario thinking? We imagine all the things that could go wrong, convinced that if we prepare for the worst, we'll somehow protect ourselves. But let me share a personal revelation with you: No worst-case-scenario thinking has ever protected me. Instead, it only projected the possible fear of tomorrow into my day today and fed more fear.

This kind of thinking doesn't align with God's word. In Matthew 6:34, Jesus tells us, "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Our Lord is inviting us to live in the present, trusting Him with our tomorrows.

Embracing God's Control

So how do we let go of our need for control and embrace God's sovereignty? Here are some practical steps we can take:

1. Cultivate a Practice of Gratitude: Start each day by thanking God for His blessings. This shifts our focus from what could go wrong to what's already right in our lives.
2. Meditate on God's Promises: Regularly read and reflect on scriptures that remind you of God's faithfulness and love. Let His word be a balm to your anxious heart.
3. Pray Surrendering Prayers: Instead of praying for specific outcomes, try praying, "Lord, I trust Your will in this situation. Help me to accept Your plan, whatever it may be."
4. Practice Mindfulness: When you catch yourself worrying about the future, gently bring your thoughts back to the present moment. Focus on what you can do today to walk in faith.
5. Share Your Struggles: Find a community of believers with whom you can be vulnerable. Share your fears and allow them to pray with and for you.
6. Serve Others: Often, when we're caught up in our own worries, serving others can provide perspective and remind us of God's bigger picture.

The Freedom in Surrender

There's a beautiful paradox in the Christian walk: true freedom comes when we surrender our need for control to God. When we try to control everything, we're actually trapped by our fears and anxieties. But when we let go and trust God, we experience the liberty to live fully in the present, confident in His love and provision.

Isaiah 41:10 assures us, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." What a powerful promise! The Creator of the universe is not just with us; He's actively strengthening, helping, and upholding us.

A New Perspective on Control

Instead of seeing control as something we need to attain, let's reframe it as something we joyfully give to God. When we feel the urge to control a situation, let it be a reminder to pause and pray, "Lord, I give this to You. Your will be done."

Remember, dear sisters, that our God is not a distant, uncaring deity. He is a loving Father who is intimately involved in every aspect of our lives. He cares about the things we care about, and His plans for us are good (Jeremiah 29:11).

Conclusion: From Fear to Faith

As we journey through life, let's commit to moving from fear to faith, from control to surrender, from anxiety to peace. It's not always an easy path, but it leads to joy, freedom, and a deeper relationship with our Savior.

The next time you feel overwhelmed by the need to control, remember this: The God who parted the Red Sea, who brought down the walls of Jericho, who raised Jesus from the dead – this same God is working in your life. He is more than capable of handling whatever situation you're facing.

Let's encourage one another to loosen our grip on control and instead cling tightly to the unchanging promises of God. For in His hands, we find not just safety, but purpose, peace, and the abundant life He promises.

May we be women who are known not for our ability to control circumstances, but for our unshakeable faith in a sovereign God. Let our lives be a testimony to His faithfulness, inspiring others to trust in Him too.

In His love and grace, Tamy