Hi Friends!
I hope you are well. This might seem like a strange question. But who is in control of your life? I know a few years ago I would have said me, me, ME! But things have changed, and I feel compelled to share with you.
He's Got the Whole World in His Hands
I know there are MANY people who struggle with anxiety, sleeplessness, and a host of other issues that stem from feelings of being out of control and helpless. Especially this last year with all of the global issues surrounding health, politics, economics, and terrorism. There is so much going on and you can only control your little part, right? But how great could life be without the excessive stress caused by all of the out of control things?
Imagine there is an entity who sees the BIGGEST picture. Someone who is in control of all of it. I'm fairly certain that whatever faith you follow there is an tenet of submission. To me that is not only believing but allowing Him to be in control of your life, to be your Guiding Light.
What do I mean?
I want to give you some very concrete examples of what I am talking about:
Recently I was quilting a project and I was very close to the end. I knew I should take a break and clean my machine, but I didn't want to stop. Next thing I know my machine locks up and I have a horrible nest of thread. Haha! Message received Lord. So I obediently take off my deck and needle plate and carefully remove all of the lint and dust under there. Moments later my project is finished. Not a big deal, but a good lesson that I need to listen to that little voice.
A few years ago, I thought I found a dream property for our future "retirement" plans. But there kept being weird glitches... the financing company needed an endless list of paperwork, then the title was suspect, and finally the actual property acreage changed... so we walked away. We were so sad at the time, but now we are so glad since our life totally switched directions and locations. It is very clear (to me) that things happen in God's time according to His plan and not my own time or plan.
I love this sign posted on my current work delivery route because it is SO true! I am in no way saying all outcomes are going to be the way you hope nor is your path going to be easy. I am simply believing that there is a reason and a purpose for all of life's events both positive and negative.
What does following God's Plan look like?
Sometimes it can be very hard to deal with bad situations, but I believe that they are only temporarily. What I do is pray about it. I say a prayer of thankfulness for good things. And I pray for strength, wisdom, and patience to deal with whatever difficult situations present themselves. I have followed this strategy in my personal life regarding children, marriage, where to live, and grandchildren. I also put my professional life in God's hands when I need to know if I am following the right path, need encouragement, or have a choice to make.
Praying and waiting for God to do His thing may seem like not doing anything. I am still living my life and doing the best I can each day, but I try to let Him make His way known and not just do what I think (or my husband thinks or kids think) is the right choice. Things don't always go the way I'd like, but I try to see His wisdom in the outcome, and wait to see what good things develop from that pathway. Only God can see that far ahead. And He has the BEST plans for you!
I have been conflicted on whether to write (and publish) this post but I felt compelled, so there must be someone who needs to hear it. Plus I am being obedient to that little voice :)
I'd love to hear your thoughts and examples! Please share in the comments.
So have a great day & I hope this helps you or someone you love.
Be blessed my friends,
Tara
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